Gambling in Utah
Utah is the only US state, along with Hawaii, that completely bans all forms of betting and gambling. This strong stance against the popular pastime is rooted deep in the ethical, moral, and religious values of those living in the state of Utah. Despite all the efforts throughout history, we have yet to witness a grand opening of a Utah casino.
The State of Utah is the final frontier for gambling in the United States. Cultural and social factors, combined with historical and economic influences, prevent Utah casinos from existing on any level. After all, 65% of its residents declare themselves members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (or Mormons, if you like). This religious group had a major influence on the State’s legislative process for well over two centuries.
However, many might wonder whether there is a reasonable chance that such a stance will change in the future? And is online gaming something that might convince Utah gambling authorities to step down from the pedestal and realize what the gambling industry can do for the economy of the Beehive State?
Top Casinos in Utah
Is online gambling legal in Utah? No, it is not. That is why one shouldn’t expect a list of top-rated casino sites and venues. However, many Utahans looking for some grown-up entertainment frequently visit casinos in border states. Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Wyoming are all a drive away.
Online Gambling in Utah
As you have found out by now, federal law allows online gambling. Still, that doesn’t mean you can simply find an online casino Utah site, sign up, and call it a day. In fact, the local politicians made sure that Utah never becomes a part of the ever-growing group of states that allow online gambling unless sit changes its Constitution.
Yes, you read it right. Online gambling Utah is primarily regulated (or should we say - prohibited?) by the Utah Constitution. According to Article VI, Section 27, “the Legislature shall not authorize any game of chance, lottery or gift enterprise under any pretense or for any purpose.”
There is also a stipulation explaining that even if the federal law allows online gambling, the state of Utah reserves the right to impose a ban on it. So, there really is much chance of seeing any real money online casino Utah options any time soon.
Attempts to Legalize Online Gambling in Utah
Still, in 2021, great efforts were made by the Utah State Senator Keith Grower, who tried to pass a bill known as 0248, proposing the legalization of skill-based games. As per the Bill, a skill-based game is one in which the winner is determined solemnly based on the players’ skills, with no possibility of automated or random winners. The random number generator shouldn’t have any influence on the total outcome whatsoever, nor will the number of bets placed beforehand affect the outcome of the game.
The members of the Senate voted against it, explaining how allowing one particular type of game would create a crack in the barrier system, thus allowing other types of gambling slowly to creep in. We can only imagine that casinos in Utah with slot machines and other games have even lower chances of getting approved.
Utah Online Poker
Is it a game of chance or a game of skill? In Utah, it doesn’t really matter, as poker is not allowed. There was a small sight of hope on the horizon with the aforementioned Bill. Yet, the authorities ensured that any online gambling Utah experiences will not happen in any form, including poker.
Still, there is a chance to enjoy this popular card game. Certain groups and organizations organize tournaments and poker events that require no buy-in. Essentially, you get to win the prize without making any real-money stakes.
Online Betting
Sports betting Utah is another domain that faces strict restrictions. Although sports events popular with bettors, such as horse races, are legal, placing bets is not.
What makes things more interesting is that Utah had more liberal laws in the past than it does today, allowing pari-mutual betting. But today, sports fans won’t be finding any legal sports betting Utah opportunities until the laws take a drastic change.
Top Gambling Cities in Utah
There is a joke that goes like this: What is the best gambling City in Utah? Las Vegas! Given the close proximity of the City of Sins to Utah’s southwestern, many residents of the Beehive State find their earthly pleasures in the capital of the gambling industry.
Utahans often visit other states as well. Colorado and Idaho are keeping Nevada company at the top of the list, but let’s not forget New Mexico and Wyoming.
Tribal Gaming
Utah is home to five strong tribes: Ute, Dine' (Navajo), Paiute, Goshute, and Shoshone. Although all of them enjoy a high level of autonomy, tribal casinos are not legal either.