When it comes to gambling laws, each state in America has its own unique set of rules and regulations. In the state of Indiana, there is a lot of confusion surrounding the legality of poker. This article will explore the current state of poker in Indiana and answer the question: Is poker illegal in Indiana
Indiana’s Gambling Laws
Before we delve into the specifics of poker, let’s take a look at Indiana’s broader gambling laws. In short, gambling is illegal in Indiana unless it falls under one of the following categories:
- Riverboat casinos
- Land-based casinos
- Horse racing
- Bingo
- Lottery games
While this may seem like a fairly comprehensive list, it is important to note that there are a lot of restrictions and regulations surrounding each type of gambling activity. For example, riverboat casinos must be on navigable water and are only allowed to operate when they are moving.
Poker in Indiana
So where does poker fit into all of this The answer is somewhat complicated. In general, playing poker for money outside of licensed casinos or charitable events is illegal in Indiana.
However, there are some exceptions to this rule. First off, social gambling (i.e., playing with friends for small stakes) is generally not considered illegal as long as nobody is making a profit from running the game.
Additionally, there are some bars and restaurants throughout the state that offer “charity poker” nights. These events typically have a buy-in fee that goes towards supporting a local charity or non-profit organization. Technically speaking, these events are legal as long as the majority of the proceeds go towards charity and not towards operating costs or profit.
The Future of Poker in Indiana
While the current laws surrounding poker in Indiana are somewhat murky, there may be some changes on the horizon. In 2019, a bill was introduced in the state legislature that would have legalized online sports betting and allowed for live dealer table games at racinos (racetrack casinos).
While this bill did not specifically address poker, it could be seen as a step towards expanding gambling options in the state. It remains to be seen whether or not similar bills will be introduced in future legislative sessions.
The Bottom Line
So, is poker illegal in Indiana The answer is yes and no.
Playing poker for money outside of licensed casinos or charitable events is technically illegal, but social gambling and certain charity events are allowed within certain parameters. It is important to stay up-to-date on any changes to Indiana’s gambling laws if you plan on playing poker within the state.
