Possible ‘New’ Gambling Regulations in Georgia, USA

Gambling regulations remain the subject of numerous debates in the online gambling industry. Throughout this time, they remain relatively unchanged. However, things took a turn for the better as different states in Georgia, USA. Moreover, the state started to consider adopting various gambling measures.

History of gambling regulations

Georgia is a state that takes gambling very seriously. The laws regarding gambling in this state are quite strict. It allows for a few specific types of gambling to take place within the borders of Georgia. Online gambling still remains illegal unless it falls into one of the categories that the law does allow.

All forms of gambling even in churches or any sectarian institution remains illegal. This means that there is no way for creation of a lottery in Georgia. This is because lotteries fall under games of chance rather than skill.

The state also prohibits poker rooms within its borders. Moreover, it's even illegal to host a home game where wagers are active. Even if you were to host a friendly poker game with your friends or your family members, you would still violate Georgia law.

Is gambling legal in Georgia?

Georgia recently made it legal to play a lottery and bet on horse racing, dog racing and jai alai. However, it is difficult to find other legal gambling ways in the state.

The state of Georgia is one of the more restrictive in the United States when it comes to gambling. The only land-based casinos allowed are the Indian casinos within the state. However, there are no other jurisdictions for any different types of casino or poker games.

The only other form of gambling legal in Georgia is a state-wide lottery and bets on horse racing, dog racing and Jai Alai. This is because there are no casinos that offer poker, Georgians have to leave their homes to play this game. Some neighbouring states include Mississippi, Tennessee, North Carolina, Alabama and Florida, where they can enjoy playing poker legally.

Legal Gambling Age in Georgia

The legal age to gamble in Georgia is 21. However, before 2011, it was 18. The minimum age limit applies to all types of gambling. This includes land-based casinos, racetracks, bingo halls, and online casinos. You can face up to six years in jail for gambling under 21.

Georgia’s online gambling laws

Online gambling remain illegal since 2003, when Georgia adopted new legislation called the Criminal Code of Georgia (CCG 2003). This law prohibited all forms of remote gambling (online and mobile), including sports betting, poker games, slots, bingo and virtual lotteries. Online casino operators cannot operate on Georgian territory or offer their services to Georgians. They could be charged with a felony and face a prison sentence of up to 5 years if convicted.

Land-based casinos

Land-based casinos can operate in Georgia, USA. This was already the case when they first brought the gambling regulations into law in 1991. Casino gambling at resorts is possible under the law, and Georgia gambling laws allow any form of casino game to be offered to guest.

Native American tribes can build and operate casinos on their lands as they see fit. The same rules apply to them regarding what games they can offer. In both cases, players must be 18 years old or older before they can gamble in Georgia casinos.

Possible new Georgia gambling laws

Georgia is heading back to the polls to vote on a new gambling referendum that could change the face of gambling in the Peach State.

The referendum will allow Georgians to vote for or against establishing a state-run lottery and use its revenue to fund various educational programs.

In addition to the state lottery, the bill also grants permission for casino resorts to be established in Georgia and authorizes sports betting.

Most of this legislation isn't expected to go into effect until late 2022. However, some parts could see movement as soon as this year, including sports betting and charity raffles.

Final takeaway

Things are looking up for Georgia, USA. There are no more hurdles to overcome; the state is now open to gambling and betting. This will provide new opportunities for residents and provide an option for visitors. It is a turning point that signals a better future for entertainment in the area.