With the passing of the new legislation still causing headaches for all of us online poker players, it still continues to state that its purpose is to back federal and state laws. I was wondering what the restrictions were in Connecticut and if it would be wise to continue to use real money?
Poker Players Alliance Forums » Ask Skallagrim
Connecticut legality?
(2 posts)-
Posted 1 year ago #
-
Connecticut has not passed a law specifically covering online poker. Thats good news. Its also good news that Connecticut has a specific exemption for home play (no rake or fee, and a "bone fide" social relationship). The bad news is Connecticut has a bad definition for gambling "dependent in whole OR IN PART by chance." That would have to include poker. There is also an exemption for contests of skill, however, which could work to allow poker tournaments.
Clearly organized poker outside of the licensed casinos is illegal. But it is a leap to say that a law clearly meant for B&M play also extends to the internet. It is possible a court would conclude that, though.
The existence of multiple gambling opportunities within Connecticut make it a primary offender of the US Constitution's Commerce Clause if it reads its gambling laws to cover online poker.
There are no Conn. Court opinions on internet poker either, but a past Conn. AG has written that he thinks online poker is illegal under Conn. Law.
You are likely safe, however. If you were ever charged as a player, it is only a class B misdemeanor - not something law enforcement goes out of its way to look for, usually. And no one has yet to be arrested for playing online poker in Connecticut.
These laws are still in a big degree of flux, and it will be time before a consensus will be formed. Until then, get used to playing in a "gray" zone.
Skallagrim
Posted 1 year ago #
Reply
You must log in to post.