Sports betting is legal in 19 states in one way or another.
Those states are: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming.
Other states will come online sometime in 2022. Some are a longer way off. In-person betting also exists in multiple states across the country, but the fastest growing part of the sports betting industry is in the online arena.
Here is a list of other legal online sports betting states.
Here's what you need to know about legal online sports betting in Rhode Island:
Can I legally bet online in Rhode Island?
Yes; if you are 18 or older. Online sports betting became legal in Rhode Island in late 2019.
How do I bet?
You can bet on sports anywhere within the state of Rhode Island by downloading a sports betting app on your smartphone/mobile device/computer/any online device. You can also place bets at physical sportsbooks, of which there are two in the state.
Where can I bet?
Anywhere within the state’s boarders. You don’t need to be a resident of the state to sign up for an online account, but you do need to be in the state to place a bet – your smartphone or desktop plugin will use geolocation (“geofence”) technology to verify that your location when placing a wager. If you are a Rhode Island resident physically in another state, you will be blocked from placing a bet.
What can I bet on?
You can bet on all major sporting events/games, including college/NCAA; however, betting on any college/NCAA contest or event in the state of Rhode Island or any game involving a Rhode Island college/NCAA program is prohibited.
Who can I bet with?
There is currently only one online sports betting option, which is run through the state’s lottery:
Who oversees betting in Rhode Island?
The Rhode Island Lottery.
-- FrontPageBets Staff
Gambling problem? There is help. Call 1-800-522-4700 or visit the National Council on Problem Gambling for help.