Is Online Gambling Legal in Oregon?
Technically, yes, but there is only one way you can gamble online in Oregon without the fear of legal repercussions: placing sports bets with the Oregon Lottery online sportsbook.
Apart from these examples, Oregon's law prohibits other forms of real money gambling on the internet.
The legal age to engage in traditional lottery games, pari-mutuel betting, charitable and social gaming is 18; the minimum age for video lottery and slots is 21.
Are Land-Based Casinos Allowed in Oregon?
Things aren't as blurry for land-based gambling establishments in OR. Gambling is legitimate at tribal gaming facilities, of which there are nine spread across the state.
Thanks to tribal-state compacts, the casinos on Indian reservations in Oregon offer Class III games, which means you can play Las Vegas-style games in these establishments. Baccarat, blackjack, bingo, craps, poker, keno, etc., they're all there.
Which Forms of Online Gambling are Legal in Oregon?
Sports betting via the Oregon Lottery online sportsbook is the only legitimate real money gambling option.
Other gambling options include daily fantasy sports, although it should be noted that this is a sort of a legal grey area as those operators aren't licensed for operation in the state.
Sweepstakes and social casino sites are also available; however, these involve zero real money bets.
Can I Get in Trouble for Gambling in an Oregon Online Casino?
Although those who get caught red-handed could face some fines and jail time, mainly if unlawful wagering activity includes profits and promotion, it's improbable they will get in trouble for this. For the time being, officials show very little interest in prosecuting online casino players.
That being said, educating yourself on Oregon's revised gambling and betting statutes is a given before you try your luck in Beaver State. When in doubt - contact an in-state lawyer who knows the ins and outs of OR wagering online and offline gambling laws if you want to be confident that you're staying on the good side of the law.
What is the Future of OR Online Gambling?
Currently, there seems to be no push among lawmakers to expand and regulate online gambling in Oregon. In 2021, a sports betting bill was introduced to allow more sports betting operators to offer their services in OR; however, it gained no traction and was shut down.
For Oregon to expand its gambling legislation, all stakeholders would have to find common ground, which isn't an easy task, so it seems that the state won't be legalising online gambling any time soon.
