Online poker is a game that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is a game of skill, strategy, and luck that is enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.
However, when it comes to the legality of online poker, the laws can be quite confusing and vary from state to state. In this article, we will discuss whether online poker is legal in Hawaii.
To answer this question, we need to look at the laws that govern gambling in Hawaii. The state of Hawaii has some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States. In fact, all forms of gambling are considered illegal in Hawaii under Chapter 712 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes.
This means that there are no land-based casinos or card rooms in Hawaii where players can legally gamble. Furthermore, any form of social gambling is also illegal in Hawaii. Social gambling refers to any game where players bet on the outcome and winners receive a prize.
So what about online poker Is it legal for players to play online poker from their homes in Hawaii
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Under current Hawaiian law, online poker falls under the definition of gambling and is therefore considered illegal.
In 2011, the Department of Justice issued an opinion stating that only sports betting was prohibited under federal law and that each state could decide its own laws regarding other forms of online gambling such as online poker. However, this opinion did not change any existing state laws, including those in Hawaii.
It’s important to note that even though playing online poker may not be enforced as strictly as other forms of gambling like sports betting or casino gaming – it’s still illegal under Hawaiian law. If you’re caught playing online poker from within the state borders – you could face fines or even imprisonment.
In conclusion, playing online poker is illegal in Hawaii. While there may be no specific penalties for playing at home – it’s important to understand that it’s still breaking the law. So if you’re a poker enthusiast living in Hawaii, it’s best to stick to playing with friends or traveling to a state where online poker is legal.
List of reasons why online poker is illegal in Hawaii:
– All forms of gambling are illegal under Chapter 712 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes
– Social gambling is also illegal in Hawaii
– Online poker falls under the definition of gambling and is therefore considered illegal
– The Department of Justice opinion did not change any existing state laws, including those in Hawaii.
