Gambling Laws of Illinois Online Gambling and Legalities

Legalization of Blackjack in Illinois

The legalization of blackjack in Illinois, both in land-based and online formats, has been a topic of ongoing debate and regulatory scrutiny. The state's gambling landscape has seen significant changes, yet the status of online blackjack remains within a legal gray area.

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), a federal law, restricts online gambling across the United States, including Illinois. This legislation, coupled with local statutes, currently prohibits online casino operators from offering real-money blackjack within the state. Attempts to amend these laws at the state level have faced obstacles, leading to a standstill in the legalization process for online gambling. Despite the restrictions on in-state online blackjack operations, Illinois law does not expressly forbid individuals from engaging in online blackjack through internationally licensed offshore casinos. Players residing in or visiting Illinois can access offshore online casinos to play blackjack legally, as these platforms fall outside the jurisdiction of state laws. The Prairie State does permit blackjack games in physical establishments. Land-based blackjack is authorized exclusively within ten commercial riverboat casinos sanctioned by the Illinois Gaming Board. These casinos adhere to strict regulations, offering patrons the opportunity to enjoy the game within the confines of their premises. While online blackjack remains unregulated within Illinois borders, offshore casinos provide avenues for enthusiasts seeking real-money gameplay. These platforms, legally accessible to Illinois residents, offer a variety of blackjack options, allowing players to experience the game's thrill and strategy virtually. The state's laws primarily target local operators, focusing on prohibiting in-state online blackjack offerings. However, they do not penalize individuals who participate in online blackjack on internationally licensed platforms. As a result, Illinois residents have the freedom to engage in offshore online blackjack without fear of legal repercussions.

Illinois Prohibited Gambling Activities

In Illinois, there are various gambling activities that are prohibited or restricted by law. Here are some activities that are generally considered illegal or regulated within the state:

• Online Casino Gaming: Illinois does not currently regulate or license online casino gaming. Operating unlicensed online gambling businesses within the state is illegal according to Section 28 of the Illinois Code. However, participating as a player on out-of-state sites hasn't been directly addressed by law.
• Unlicensed Online Gambling: Engaging in unlicensed online gambling activities while residing in Illinois is considered illegal.
• Illegal Offshore Sites: Betting or participating in gambling activities on offshore gambling sites from within Illinois may be considered unlawful under state law, even if the sites are based outside the state.
• Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) Uncertainty: The legality of DFS contests in Illinois remains somewhat ambiguous. In 2015, former Attorney General Lisa Madigan categorized DFS contests as illegal gambling. However, in 2020, the state Supreme Court ruled that DFS was a game of skill. Despite this, the state's gambling laws don't explicitly differentiate between games of skill and games of chance when determining legality.
• Unauthorized Charitable Gaming: Engaging in charitable gaming activities, such as unauthorized bingo or other games not sanctioned by the state, may be considered unlawful.
• Unregulated Poker Rooms: While live poker rooms exist in Illinois, launching real-money poker sites within the state is prohibited as there are no laws regulating online poker.
• Unauthorized Lotteries: Participating in lottery games not sanctioned by the Illinois Lottery, especially those hosted in a different country via online-lottery concierge services, likely violates state gambling laws.
• Illegal Sports Betting Platforms: Engaging in sports betting through offshore or unauthorized platforms while residing in Illinois is nominally illegal. The state legalized land-based and mobile sports betting in 2019, allowing licensed operators to offer these services.