Gambling in the state of Rhode Island is limited to two state-licensed casinos with slots, virtual gaming and some table games like blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat and poker. In addition, betting on horse and dog racing, jai alai and charitable gambling are all allowed – some in limited areas though – and the state lottery was also founded in 1974.

Best Betting Sites for Rhode Island

Gaming Laws in Rhode Island

Rhode Island State Code Section 11-19-1 defines illegal gambling as “directly or indirectly setting up, carrying on, promoting or drawing, publicly or privately, any lottery, chance, game, or device of any nature or kind whatsoever, or by whatsoever name it may be called, for the purpose of exposing, setting for sale or disposing of any money, houses, lands, merchandise, or articles of value.” The resulting penalty for any illegal activity is classified as a felony punishable by imprisonment not exceeding two years and a fine not exceeding $2,000.

Tribal Casinos

There are no tribal casinos in the state of Rhode Island.

Sports Betting in Rhode Island

Sports betting is not allowed in the state of Rhode Island.

Online Sportsbooks

Even though there are no sportsbooks available at physical locations or online in the state of Rhode Island, bettors still have the opportunity to choose from many offshore options. Offshore sportsbooks are widely considered to be a much safer option than local bookmakers. In addition to having the convenience of placing bets right from a personal computer or mobile device and a variety of options, online bettors can trust reputable and well-reviewed offshore books to always offer lines and pay out, which may not always be the case for local bookies.

Poker and Casino in Rhode Island

Poker and other table games in Rhode Island are limited to the two casinos that are licensed within the state. They include the Newport Grand and Twin River Casino, which both offer slot machines and virtual gaming for blackjack and roulette. The Twin River Casino also has some table games, including blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat and different poker variations.

Online Poker

In addition to the Twin River Casino for those in Rhode Island, online games may appeal to interested players who can pursue offshore poker websites in order to participate.

Other Gaming Options in Rhode Island

Betting on licensed horse racing and on-track parimutuel wagering is legal in Rhode Island as well as dog racing in the cities of Burrillville, Lincoln and West Greenwich and jai alai in Newport. Charitable gambling is also allowed within the state, including bingo and raffles.

Rhode Island Lottery

The Rhode Island Lottery started in 1974 with money collected benefiting the State General Fund and distressed communities. Lottery games range from instant-win scratchers to jackpot drawings such as Powerball and Mega Millions plus pull-tabs for charitable organizations.

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