If you’re a poker enthusiast in New York, you may be wondering what online poker sites are legal to play on. The answer to this question is not straightforward as online gambling laws in the state are quite complex. In this article, we’ll delve into the legal status of online poker in NY and discuss some of the sites that you can legally play on.
Firstly, it’s important to understand the current state of gambling laws in New York. While land-based casinos are legal in certain parts of the state, including four commercial casinos and several tribal casinos, online gambling is a different story.
In 2013, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed legislation that made online poker illegal in the state. However, this law only applies to operators and not individuals who play poker online.
So what does this mean for players? It means that while there are no regulated online poker sites in NY as of yet, players can still access offshore sites that accept American players. These sites operate from other countries where online gambling is legal and offer their services to players all over the world.
It’s important to note that playing on offshore sites comes with some risks. Since these sites are not regulated by US authorities, they may not adhere to strict standards when it comes to player protection and fair gaming practices. Additionally, there have been cases where offshore sites have been shut down by authorities or have refused to pay out winnings.
That being said, there are several reputable offshore poker sites that accept players from New York. Some of these include:
1) Ignition Poker – This site was launched in 2016 and is part of the Bodog network. It offers a wide variety of games including Texas Hold’em and Omaha, as well as regular tournaments with large prize pools.
2) BetOnline – BetOnline has been around since 2004 and has built a solid reputation as a reliable site for sports betting and casino games. It also offers a range of poker games and tournaments.
3) Americas Cardroom – This site is part of the Winning Poker Network and has been serving players since 2001. It offers a range of games including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and 7 Card Stud, as well as regular tournaments with big guarantees.
When choosing an offshore site to play on, it’s important to do your research and make sure that the site is reputable and has a good track record when it comes to player safety and fair gaming practices. You should also be aware that depositing and withdrawing funds from these sites may be more challenging than on regulated sites, as US banks may block transactions related to online gambling.
In conclusion, while online poker may not be legal in NY in a regulated sense, players can still access offshore sites that accept American players. However, playing on these sites comes with some risks so it’s important to choose a reputable site and be aware of the potential challenges involved.
