legal online sports betting states

Introduction In recent years, the landscape of online sports betting has undergone significant changes in the United States. Following a landmark Supreme Court decision in 2018, individual states have been empowered to regulate and legalize online sports betting within their jurisdictions. This article provides an overview of the current legal status of online sports betting across various US states. Key Takeaways: As of the latest update (2023), several states have legalized online sports betting.

  • Starlight Betting Lounge
    new
    Celestial Bet100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Cash King Palace
    Royal Wins100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Lucky Ace Palace
    Luck&Luxury100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Silver Fox Slots
    Elegance+Fun100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Golden Spin Casino
    Luxury Play100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Spin Palace Casino
    Win Big Now100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Diamond Crown Casino
    Opulence & Fun100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Royal Fortune Gaming
    Opulence & Thrills100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Lucky Ace Casino
    Luck&Luxury100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Jackpot Haven
    Thrills&Wins100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more

Introduction

In recent years, the landscape of online sports betting has undergone significant changes in the United States. Following a landmark Supreme Court decision in 2018, individual states have been empowered to regulate and legalize online sports betting within their jurisdictions. This article provides an overview of the current legal status of online sports betting across various US states.

Key Takeaways:

  • As of the latest update (2023), several states have legalized online sports betting.
  • A majority of these states allow both retail and online betting, while a few restrict in-person betting only.
  • Some states have specific regulations regarding operator licensing, tax rates, and age restrictions.
  • The landscape is subject to change as new laws are passed or existing ones are updated.

The following list represents the current legal status of online sports betting across various US states:

1. Delaware

  • Legalized: June 5, 2018
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: 9% tax on gross revenue from sports betting.

2. New Jersey

  • Legalized: August 6, 2018
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Operators must obtain a license to offer online betting.
  • Tax rate: 13.75% tax on gross revenue from sports betting.

3. Pennsylvania

  • Legalized: July 24, 2019
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: 34% tax on gross revenue from sports betting.

4. Iowa

  • Legalized: May 1, 2019
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Operators must obtain a license to offer online betting.
  • Tax rate: 35% tax on gross revenue from sports betting.

5. Indiana

  • Legalized: October 15, 2019
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: 10% tax on gross revenue from sports betting.

6. New Hampshire

  • Legalized: July 12, 2017 (online-only)
  • Type: Online only
  • Operator licensing: Operators must obtain a license to offer online betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting ( operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

7. Illinois

  • Legalized: June 28, 2019
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: 15% tax on gross revenue from sports betting.

8. Colorado

  • Legalized: May 1, 2020
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Operators must obtain a license to offer online betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

9. Tennessee

  • Legalized: November 1, 2020
  • Type: Online only
  • Operator licensing: Operators must obtain a license to offer online betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

10. Virginia

  • Legalized: July 24, 2020
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

11. Washington D.C.

  • Legalized: June 3, 2020
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

12. Michigan

  • Legalized: December 13, 2020
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

13. Connecticut

  • Legalized: October 19, 2021
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

14. Arizona

  • Legalized: April 15, 2021
  • Type: Online only
  • Operator licensing: Operators must obtain a license to offer online betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

15. Wyoming

  • Legalized: July 1, 2021
  • Type: Online and retail
  • Operator licensing: Licensed operators can offer both online and retail betting.
  • Tax rate: No tax on gross revenue from sports betting (operators can deduct sports betting revenue for tax purposes).

The landscape of legal online sports betting in the United States has expanded significantly since 2018. While there are still some states where online sports betting is not permitted, many jurisdictions have established their own regulations regarding operator licensing, tax rates, and age restrictions. As new laws are passed or existing ones are updated, the list of legal online sports betting states will continue to evolve.

Important Notes:

  • This article only includes information up to 2023.
  • The status of online sports betting in various states may change over time due to updates in laws or regulations.
  • For the most current and accurate information on online sports betting, consult the official websites or regulatory bodies of the relevant states.

Online sports betting has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many states in the United States legalizing the activity. However, not all states have made online sports betting a part of their gaming regulations.

Several states have legalized online sports betting, while others have explicitly prohibited it. Here’s a breakdown of the current situation:

  • Delaware: Delaware was one of the first states to legalize online sports betting in 2018. The state allows residents to place bets through several licensed operators.
  • New Jersey: New Jersey legalized online sports betting in 2018, following a successful Supreme Court challenge to the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). Residents can access various online sportsbooks.
  • Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania also legalized online sports betting in 2019. Residents can place bets through licensed operators like FanDuel and SugarHouse.
  • Iowa: Iowa legalized online sports betting in 2019, allowing residents to access several licensed operators.
  • Indiana: Indiana became the first state to legalize online sports betting in 2020. The state has issued several licenses for online sportsbooks.
  • Illinois: Illinois followed Indiana’s lead, legalizing online sports betting in 2020. Residents can place bets through various licensed operators.
  • Michigan: Michigan legalized online sports betting in 2021, allowing residents to access several licensed operators.
  • Virginia: Virginia became the first southern state to legalize online sports betting in 2021. The state has issued several licenses for online sportsbooks.

Legalizing Online Sports Betting

While some states have not explicitly prohibited online sports betting, they may still be working on regulations or laws related to this activity.

Online sports betting provides an opportunity for users to earn money by predicting the outcome of various sports events. Users can access multiple licensed operators from one place, with some platforms offering a wide range of payment methods and rewards. The user experience is designed to be enjoyable, with live streaming available on many online platforms.

While some states are actively regulating online sports betting, others may still have restrictions in place. Users should always check the current laws and regulations for their state before engaging in this activity.

Online Sports Betting Regulations

In addition to the legal status of online sports betting by state, it’s also important to consider the regulations surrounding this activity.

Online sports betting can be regulated at both the federal and state levels. While PASPA was repealed in 2018, the U.S. government still maintains some regulatory authority over this industry.

At the state level, regulations often focus on issues such as:

  • Licensing: Online sportsbooks must obtain licenses to operate in a given state.
  • Age restrictions: Only individuals aged 21 or older are typically allowed to place bets online.
  • Payment methods: States may regulate which payment methods can be used for online sports betting transactions.

Users should familiarize themselves with the specific regulations of their state before engaging in online sports betting.

online sports betting companies

Overview

Online sports betting companies have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering users a convenient way to place bets on various sporting events. These companies operate online platforms that allow users to create accounts, deposit funds, and place bets on different sports and outcomes.

Types of Online Sports Betting Companies

There are several types of online sports betting companies, including:

  • Bookmakers: These companies offer odds on a wide range of sports and events, allowing users to bet on the outcome. Bookmakers make their profit by setting the odds in such a way that they ensure a small margin of profit over time.
  • Sportsbooks: Similar to bookmakers, sportsbooks offer odds on various sports and events. However, sportsbooks often have a more extensive range of betting options, including prop bets (proposition bets) and futures bets.
  • Exchanges: These companies operate as peer-to-peer platforms where users can buy and sell bets with each other. Exchanges typically do not take a commission on winnings, but instead charge a small fee for the service.

Key Features of Online Sports Betting Companies

Some key features of online sports betting companies include:

  • Variety of sports: Most online sports betting companies offer odds on a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more.
  • Convenience: Online sports betting allows users to place bets from anywhere with an internet connection, making it easy to participate in the activity.
  • Safety and security: Reputable online sports betting companies take measures to ensure that user data is secure and that payouts are made promptly.
  • Promotions and bonuses: Many online sports betting companies offer promotions and bonuses to new users or to encourage repeat business.

Some popular online sports betting companies include:

  • Bet365
  • FanDuel
  • DraftKings
  • 888 Sport
  • William Hill

Regulations and Laws

Online sports betting is regulated differently in various countries. In some jurisdictions, online sports betting is prohibited or heavily restricted, while in others it is allowed with certain rules and regulations.

In the United States, for example, the Supreme Court ruled in 2018 that states have the authority to regulate sports betting, leading to many states passing laws allowing online sports betting. In the UK, online sports betting is regulated by the Gambling Commission, which sets rules for operators and ensures they operate fairly.

Online sports betting companies offer users a convenient way to place bets on various sporting events from anywhere with an internet connection. While there are different types of online sports betting companies, most share key features such as variety of sports, convenience, safety and security, and promotions and bonuses. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, regulations and laws will likely continue to shape the market.

bwin sports online betting

Bwin sports online betting has become increasingly popular over the years due to its convenience and accessibility. In this article, we will delve into the world of bwin sports online betting, exploring its features, benefits, and tips for success.

What is Bwin Sports Online Betting?

Bwin sports online betting refers to the practice of placing wagers on various sporting events using an online platform provided by bwin, a well-established gaming company. This type of betting allows users to place bets from anywhere with an internet connection, making it a popular choice for many sports enthusiasts.

Features of Bwin Sports Online Betting

Some key features of bwin sports online betting include:

  • Wide range of sports: Bwin offers a vast selection of sports and events to bet on, including football, basketball, tennis, and more.
  • Competitive odds: Users can enjoy competitive odds and prices on various bets, increasing their chances of winning.
  • Live betting: Bwin allows users to place live bets during ongoing events, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement.
  • Mobile accessibility: The bwin platform is fully optimized for mobile devices, making it easy to bet on-the-go.

Benefits of Bwin Sports Online Betting

There are several benefits associated with bwin sports online betting:

  • Convenience: Users can place bets from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have an internet connection.
  • Variety: The wide range of sports and events available on the platform ensures that users always find something to bet on.
  • Excitement: Live betting adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement, making the experience more thrilling.
  • Potential for profit: With careful planning and research, users can potentially earn money from their bets.

Tips for Success in Bwin Sports Online Betting

To maximize your chances of success in bwin sports online betting, consider the following tips:

  • Research thoroughly: Before placing a bet, research the teams or players involved to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Set a budget: Establish a budget for betting and stick to it to avoid financial losses.
  • Stay disciplined: Avoid impulsive decisions and stay focused on your goals.
  • Take advantage of promotions: Bwin often offers promotions and bonuses that can enhance the overall experience.

Bwin sports online betting has become an increasingly popular form of entertainment, offering a wide range of sports and events to bet on. With its competitive odds, live betting capabilities, and mobile accessibility, users can enjoy a thrilling experience from anywhere. By following the tips outlined in this article, users can maximize their chances of success and potentially earn money from their bets.

Further Reading

For more information on bwin sports online betting, including reviews, tutorials, and expert advice, refer to the following resources:

Note: The resources provided are fictional and used for demonstration purposes only. For actual information, please refer to the official bwin website or other reputable sources.

Source

  1. legal online sports betting states
  2. legal online sports betting states
  3. legal online sports betting states
  4. dafabet sports betting: your ultimate guide to online sports betting
  5. legal online sports betting states
  6. legal online sports betting states

Frequently Questions

Is it legal to bet on NFL games online?

Betting on NFL games online is legal in some regions but not in others. In the United States, online sports betting is regulated on a state-by-state basis. States like Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania have legalized and regulated online sports betting, allowing residents to place bets on NFL games through licensed platforms. However, in states where online sports betting is not legal, engaging in such activities could result in penalties. It's crucial to check your local laws and regulations before participating in online NFL betting to ensure compliance and avoid legal repercussions.

Is Betting on NFL Football Online Legal?

Betting on NFL football online is legal in certain regions, but it depends on local laws and regulations. In the United States, online sports betting is legal in several states, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada, where specific laws have been enacted to regulate and tax online gambling. However, in many other states, online betting remains illegal. Internationally, countries like the UK and Australia have well-established legal frameworks for online sports betting. It's crucial to check your local laws and use licensed, regulated platforms to ensure a safe and legal betting experience.

 

Is it legal to bet on Super Bowl 2020 online?

Betting on Super Bowl 2020 online is legal in some regions but not in others. In the United States, online sports betting was only legalized in certain states by 2020, such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Nevada. In these states, residents could legally place bets on the Super Bowl through licensed online platforms. However, in states without legalized online sports betting, such activities were considered illegal. It's crucial to check local laws and regulations before engaging in online sports betting to ensure compliance with legal standards.

Where can I find a comprehensive guide to legal online sports betting states?

For a comprehensive guide to legal online sports betting states, visit the American Gaming Association (AGA) website. The AGA provides up-to-date information on which states have legalized sports betting, including online and mobile options. Additionally, the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) offers detailed legislative summaries and status updates on sports betting laws across the U.S. Websites like LegalSportsBetting.com and SportsBettingLegal.com also compile extensive guides and state-by-state breakdowns, ensuring you have the latest legal insights for your sports betting activities.

Is Online Poker Legalized for Sports Betting?

The legality of online poker for sports betting varies by jurisdiction. In many countries, online poker is regulated and legal, but sports betting may have different rules. For instance, in the United States, online poker is legal in states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania, but sports betting laws vary state by state. It's crucial to check local regulations to ensure compliance. Always verify the legal status in your area before engaging in online poker or sports betting activities to avoid any legal repercussions.