Online poker is a big part of what makes gambling so successful in 2023. Poker is one of the most popular games, and it being available at any point during the day is a huge draw for many gamblers. However, online poker in the USA is, in big part, dependent on interstate poker rulings. In this article, we are going to take a look at the current standing of interstate poker in the United States.
What is Interstate Poker?
Before we delve into the standing of interstate poker, we ought to discuss what it even is. Interstate poker is, basically, exactly what it sounds like. Multiple states can enter into an agreement to share liquidity. Once they do this, they can then seat players from different states at the same tables. But, what is the point?
Well, it is self-evident. More players at a table means more tables, which means bigger tournaments, which means more games, and ultimately more money. Interstate poker is absolutely integral to keeping online poker vibrant and active. So, if you have any interest in online poker, check out this website, for curated reviews of some of the best online poker games around.
Now that we know what interstate poker is, let us take a look at the current standing of the game. We will explore laws, regulations, and talk about the different states where online poker is legal.
The State of Interstate Poker
First, let us get the most important question out of the way. Is interstate poker legal? The answer is yes; interstate poker is legal in the USA. However, in order to run interstate poker games, a company must run at least two online casinos with several qualifications. Let us go over what these qualifications are:
- They must operate and run a regulated online poker room.
This one is obvious. In order for a website to run interstate poker games, they must first feature the game on their site. If you are interested in online poker, ensure that the website you’ve opted for is safe and regulated.
- They must have signed a document called the Multi-State iGaming Agreement
The Multi-State iGaming Agreement is a compact that first came about in 2014. The agreement allows US online casinos to operate in multiple states, boost their player numbers, and offer bigger prizes and more games. Nevada and Delaware were the first states to sign the agreement in 2014. Nevada joined them later and Michigan officially became part of MSiGA in April 2022.
- They must meet the regulations for cross-state poker
Finally, the casino sites must meet the prerequisites for interstate poker, which includes authorizing their poker rooms to take advantage of the MSiGA, as well as ensure proper regulation.
Now that you are aware of the rules that interstate poker rooms have to adhere to, let us go over the states that meet all of these prerequisites.
States that Meet the Prerequisites
As of 2023, out of the eight states that have legalized online poker, only four meet all of the proper requirements for interstate poker. The eight states that have legalized online poker are the following:
- New Jersey
- Nevada
- Delaware
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
- West Virginia
Of these eight, the four that meet all prerequisites for cross-state poker tournaments are the following:
- New Jersey
- Nevada
- Delaware
- Michigan
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