Online poker has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many players are wondering if they can legally play in their state. For those living in Maryland, the answer is yes – with some caveats.
In 2012, the Maryland Attorney General issued an opinion stating that online gambling is illegal under state law. However, this opinion only applies to those who operate online gambling sites or facilitate transactions for such sites. It does not apply to individual players who want to participate in online poker games.
While there are no specific laws in Maryland that prohibit online poker play, it is important to note that federal law does have some restrictions. The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 prohibits banks and other financial institutions from processing transactions related to online gambling.
This means that players may have difficulty depositing and withdrawing funds from online poker sites. However, many reputable sites offer alternative payment options such as e-wallets or cryptocurrency that can be used without issue.
It should also be noted that while playing online poker as an individual is not illegal in Maryland, it is still important to choose a reputable site. Look for sites that are licensed and regulated by respected gaming commissions such as the Malta Gaming Authority or the UK Gambling Commission.
Additionally, it is important to practice responsible gambling habits. Set limits on your time and money spent playing and never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
In summary, while Maryland has no specific laws against individuals playing online poker, federal laws may make it difficult to deposit and withdraw funds from offshore sites. It is important to choose reputable sites and practice responsible gambling habits when playing online poker.
