Georgia is one of the few US states that doesn’t permit any form of regulated gambling – from online casino gaming and sports betting, to poker sites. Are you interested in trying your luck at gambling online but uncertain whether Georgia law permits it? Read on for more details regarding current legislation in this state.
Georgia lawmakers have discussed legalizing online gambling before, yet nothing has come of it yet. That doesn’t mean it won’t eventually happen; lawmakers would likely put it before voters for approval before becoming reality. Georgia Lottery Corporation was established in 1992 and began selling tickets online as late 2012; they currently oversee any form of regulated gambling within Georgia including lottery tickets as well. Should lawmakers legalize sports betting online as well, Georgia Lottery Corporation likely take on that responsibility too.
Georgia doesn’t currently host any other forms of gambling aside from its state lottery; no commercial or tribal casinos exist and any attempts at their introduction in recent years have failed to bear fruit.
Should legislators decide to legalize online sports betting, the road ahead could be long. They will need to pass bills in both houses of parliament before seeking voter approval via ballot referendum; should that occur, sports betting could come online sometime around 2024-2025.
Additionally, there are other gambling-related matters to keep in mind. For instance, Nevada’s anti-gambling laws are quite expansive; specifically, their code states: “Gambling refers to any form of betting wherein participants place money or anything of value at stake on the outcome of contests, races, or other events”. Furthermore, communicating information regarding betting odds or changes thereof is prohibited under state law.
Georgia may have strict gambling laws, yet still provides some help for problem gamblers. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities offers research, prevention, education and treatment for gambling-related problems – even offering 24-hour crisis lines to provide immediate assistance when needed.
Georgia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities operates not only mental health facilities, but also an additional program called Georgia’s Gambling Helpline which can be reached 24/7 at this number 888-564-4722. Services provided include toll-free hotlines as well as peer support groups dedicated to those suffering from gambling addiction or affected by those who do so.
Georgia has some of the strictest gambling laws in the nation, making it unlikely for it to ever offer full range of regulated games. However, some offshore sites accept players from Georgia; when choosing an offshore site make sure it follows local regulations and adheres to law for your own safety and integrity of games played. It is also wise to familiarise yourself with each game’s rules before beginning gambling activities.