The Complete Guide to Gambling Laws in Idaho

History and Timeline for Idaho Online Gambling

The history and evolution of online gambling in Idaho are marked by significant legislative milestones and shifts in public perception. Here's a chronological overview of key events:

• 1890: The drafting of Idaho's state constitution sets a stringent tone by outrightly banning all forms of “lottery”-based gambling, reflecting the prevailing sentiments of the time towards games of chance.
• 1930: The early 20th century witnesses a surge in the popularity of slot machines in Idaho. This trend is fueled by ambiguities in the legal framework surrounding gambling, creating a thriving environment for this emerging form of entertainment.
• 1947: Recognizing the need for oversight, the state takes a pivotal step by formally regulating slot machines. This move aims to bring a level of control and accountability to the burgeoning slot machine industry.
• 1949: Reflecting a conservative stance on gambling, Idaho enacts legislation to criminalize casino games, signaling a clear intention to curtail various forms of wagering within its borders.
• 1953: The Idaho Supreme Court intervenes decisively, declaring slot machines unconstitutional. This legal ruling serves as a landmark moment, resulting in the outright ban of slot machine activities within the state.
• 1963: Acknowledging the shifting landscape, the state takes a significant turn by permitting pari-mutuel wagering at horse racing tracks. This marks a departure from the previously stringent regulations and introduces a new dimension to the gambling options available to Idaho residents.
• 1988: Responding to public demand for a state lottery, the Idaho Legislature approves the establishment of the Idaho Lottery. This decision represents a notable evolution in the state's approach to gambling, introducing a government-run lottery as a sanctioned form of entertainment.
• 1988: On the national front, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) is federally approved. This act opens the door for tribes with federal recognition, including those in Idaho, to negotiate gaming agreements with their respective states.
• 1992: Three Idaho tribes, namely the Kootenai, Nez Perce, and Coeur d’Alene, seek to expand their gaming offerings by petitioning the state for the right to offer Class III gaming.
• 1992: In response to the tribes' petition, a constitutional modification is passed explicitly banning Class III gaming. This legislative move narrows the legal gambling landscape in Idaho to the state lottery, pari-mutuel horse racing, and charitable bingo or raffle games held for charitable purposes.
• 2002: Acknowledging the evolving nature of gaming preferences, the state permits tribes to introduce video gaming machines. Crucially, these games are required to lack traditional slot machine features, reflecting an effort to balance innovation with regulatory control.
• 2011: The state takes steps to modernize its horseracing laws by allowing simulcasting, enabling Idaho residents to engage with horse racing events beyond the confines of live racing tracks.
• 2013: The Idaho Legislature approves the introduction of instant horse racing machines, showcasing an ongoing effort to adapt to emerging trends in the gambling industry.
• 2015: A notable shift occurs as historical horse racing machines are repealed. This decision reflects a nuanced approach to specific forms of gambling, indicating a continuous reevaluation of the state's stance on various gaming activities.
• 2016: Idaho's attorney general takes a stance against daily fantasy sports, effectively implementing a ban on these activities within the state. This move aligns with a broader trend of states grappling with the legal status of daily fantasy sports.
• 2017: A proposal seeking to reverse the 2002 referendum allowing tribes to operate video-style slot games is introduced. Despite the effort, the bill is met with resistance and ultimately rejected, solidifying the established gaming landscape.
• 2019: The opening of the Shoshone-Bannock Casino Hotel marks a recent addition to Idaho's gambling offerings, contributing to the diversity of options available to residents and visitors.
• 2021: Idaho's participation in the Powerball lottery game comes to an end following state legislation. This decision underscores the dynamic nature of state policies regarding multi-state lotteries, reflecting a reassessment of the state's involvement in such ventures.

Legalization of Bingo in Idaho

In Idaho, the world of bingo extends beyond traditional live halls to include vibrant online platforms, accommodating players' preferences for both communal and remote gaming experiences. To engage in legal bingo play in the state, residents must be at least 18 years old. The bingo landscape in Idaho is rich with diverse variations, offering players a choice between 30-ball, 75-ball, 80-ball, and 90-ball bingo, each featuring distinct rules and patterns. Both paper and online bingo contribute to engaging gaming experiences, with paper bingo providing a traditional social setting, fostering a sense of community among players. Online bingo bonuses, such as free tickets and match deposit offers, further enrich the digital gaming experience, adding an extra layer of excitement and incentives.

• 1963: The state allows pari-mutuel wagering at horse racing tracks, marking an initial shift in the gambling landscape.
• 1988: The Idaho Legislature approves the establishment of the Idaho Lottery, introducing a state-run lottery.
• 1992: A constitutional modification explicitly bans Class III gaming, limiting legal gambling in Idaho to the lottery, pari-mutuel horse racing, and charitable bingo or raffle games.
• 2011: Horse racing laws are expanded to allow simulcasting, broadening the horizons for racing enthusiasts.
• 2013: The Idaho Legislature approves instant horse racing machines, introducing a new dimension to gaming offerings.
• 2015: Historical horse racing machines are repealed, showcasing a dynamic approach to specific forms of gambling.
• Present: Idaho's bingo scene flourishes with a combination of live halls and online platforms, reflecting the evolving preferences of players for both communal and remote gaming experiences.