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Knowing the law is important if you’re a poker player in Idaho. This article will discuss Idaho Poker Laws and what you need to know. We’ll cover topics such as whether or not poker is legal in Idaho, where you can play, and what the penalties are for breaking the law.
So, whether you’re a beginner just learning about Idaho Poker Laws or an experienced player looking for more information, this article has everything you need!
Where to play online poker in Idaho?
Looking to play poker in Idaho? Check out our list of the best Idaho poker sites!
BetOnline Poker
Ignition Poker
Everygame Poker
Is Online Gambling Illegal In Idaho?
Currently, no laws in Idaho specifically relate to online gambling, which means that it is not explicitly illegal. However, there are laws that prohibit gambling in general, and it is possible that these could be interpreted to apply to online gambling as well.
As a result, it is advisable to exercise caution if you choose to gamble online in Idaho. Only reputable and licensed sites must be used if you decide to gamble. Additionally, you should be aware of the risks involved and make sure that you gamble responsibly.
Gambling can be a fun and entertaining activity, but it is important to remember that it can also be addictive. If you feel like you are losing control of your gambling or if it is causing problems in your life, there are plenty of resources available to help you.
Gambling addiction is a serious issue, and it is important to get help if you need it. Remember that gambling should always be done in moderation and never with more money than you can afford to lose. You can gamble safely and enjoyably online in Idaho with responsible gambling habits.
Idaho Poker and Gambling Laws
Section 20 of the Idaho state constitution forbids all forms of gambling, except for lottery, legalized pari-mutuel betting, and charitable gambling as permitted by law. This means that poker is a type of restricted gambling in Idaho.
To participate in such activities as a player is a misdemeanor (Section 18 – 3802). Interestingly, Idaho has comparatively light sanctions for running illicit gambling operations compared to other states. This might be due to the state’s shortage of legal casinos.
The Idaho constitution outlaws a game type that would appear to encompass online casinos but does not make a specific mention of the Internet. So, while you cannot gamble online in Idaho, you will not get into too much trouble if caught doing so. There are still plenty of ways to have fun in Idaho without breaking the law.
Summary of Idaho Gambling Law
Gambling in Idaho is a misdemeanor, as set out in the Idaho Statutes under Title 18, Crimes and Punishments:
“18-3802. GAMBLING PROHIBITED.
1. A person is guilty of gambling if he:
(a) Participates in gambling; or
(b) Knowingly permits any gambling to be played, conducted, or dealt upon or in any real or personal property owned, rented, or under control of the actor, whether in whole or in part.
2. Gambling is a misdemeanor.” (1)
So in order to know whether or not a certain activity constitutes gambling, we need a definition of what is meant by gambling in Idaho. The law does not typically rely on dictionary definitions and generally sets out what terms mean under particular laws, and this is no exception in Idaho, who provide the following definition of “gambling”:
“18-3801 GAMBLING DEFINED. “Gambling” means risking any money, credit, deposit, or anything of value for gain contingent in whole or in part upon lot, chance, the operation of a gambling device or the happening or outcome of any event, including a sporting event, the operation of casino gambling including, but not limited to, blackjack, craps, roulette, poker, bacarrat [baccarat] or keno, but does not include:
- Bona fide contests of skill, speed, strength or endurance in which awards are made only to entrants or the owners of entrants; or
- Bona fide business transactions which are valid under the law of contracts; or
- Games that award only additional play; or
- Merchant promotional contests and drawings conducted incidentally to bona fide nongaming business operations, if prizes are awarded without consideration being charged to participants, or
- Other acts or transactions now or hereafter expressly authorized by law.” (2)
Idaha Gambling Law Resources
- Idaho Statutes, 18-3802, Gambling Prohibited
- Idaho Statutes, 18-3801, Gambling Defined
- Boise Plans to Appeal Gambling Decision
- Coeur d’Alene Casino
Short History of Gambling in Idaho
Idaho has a long history with gambling, dating back to the 1950s when the state first banned slot machines. However, in 1963 Idaho changed its tune and permitted horse racing wagering. This move helped to spur a boom in the horse racing industry, and for many years Idaho was considered one of the top racing states in the United States.
However, the legalization of other forms of gambling, including the lottery, tribal casino games, and online gambling, has decreased the amount of money wagered on horse racing. As a result, Idaho’s once-thriving horse racing industry is now struggling to stay afloat.
Although some hope that recent changes to the state’s gambling laws will help to revive the industry, it remains to be seen whether or not this will be enough to bring back Idaho’s horse racing glory days.
The Future of Gambling in Idaho
Gambling in Idaho has been a contentious issue for many years. Some see it as a harmless form of entertainment and believe it preys on the vulnerable and leads to crime and addiction. However, the recent US Supreme Court ruling on sports betting is set to change the landscape of gambling in America, and Idaho is likely to feel the effects.
While the state administration has not yet made any statement on the matter, it is widely believed that they will eventually relent and allow gambling to occur within Idaho’s borders. The main reason for this is financial. With other states across the country reaping the benefits of increased tax revenue from gambling, it will become increasingly difficult for Idaho to ignore this potential source of income.
In addition, as gambling becomes more accepted nationally, the pressure will increase on Idaho to follow suit. While it is unlikely that gambling will ever be embraced wholeheartedly by the people of Idaho, it seems inevitable that changes will be made to the state’s gambling laws in the coming years.
Final Thoughts
The Idaho Legislature has made it very clear that gambling is illegal in the state of Idaho. However, they have also said that social games played in private homes are not considered gambling and are therefore legal. This means that you can play poker in Idaho as long as the game takes place in a private home and no one is making any money off it.
If you’re looking to find some legal poker action in Idaho, your best bet is to check out one of the many online poker rooms available. There are plenty of great Idaho-based online poker rooms to choose from, and you’re sure to find one that’s right for you. Thanks for reading, and good luck at the tables!
Frequently Asked Questions
The chances of online poker being legalized in Idaho are slim to none. There is no indication that the state is considering such a move, and even if it were to happen, a long process would be involved in drafting and passing a bill.
That said, there is always a chance that something could change at the last minute, so keep an eye on developments here. In the meantime, you can enjoy and start playing at offshore sites that are licensed and regulated in other countries. These sites offer a safe and secure gaming experience, and your money will be protected if anything goes wrong.
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