Understanding the Gambling Age in Washington State

In the United States, gambling laws vary from state to state, and Washington State is no exception. The legal gambling age in Washington is an important topic for anyone interested in participating in the state's thriving gambling industry. This article will delve into the specifics of the gambling age in Washington, discussing the various forms of gambling available and the age restrictions associated with each.

Gambling Age in Washington: An Overview

The legal gambling age in Washington State is 21. This means that anyone under the age of 21 is not allowed to participate in any form of gambling within the state. This includes casinos, racetracks, sports betting, poker rooms, and even bingo halls. While the minimum age for gambling is 21, there are certain exceptions to this rule.

Exceptions to the Gambling Age in Washington

1. Social Gambling: Social gambling, which involves gambling among friends and family in a private setting, is not illegal in Washington. However, it is important to note that the definition of social gambling is quite narrow and must meet specific criteria, such as not being for profit and having no admission fees.

2. Horse Racing: While the legal gambling age is 21, individuals aged 18 and 19 can participate in horse racing and pari-mutuel betting at racetracks in Washington. This exception is due to the federal law that allows racing to be conducted in states where it is legal, as long as individuals are at least 18 years old.

3. Bingo: Bingo is an exception to the gambling age requirement in Washington. Individuals aged 18 and 19 can participate in bingo, but only if the proceeds from the game are donated to a charity. This exception is a result of a federal law that allows bingo to be conducted in states where it is legal, as long as the proceeds go to a charitable cause.

Forms of Gambling in Washington

1. Casinos: Washington has two tribal casinos, the Clearwater Casino and Hotel and the Lummi Casino, both of which offer a variety of slot machines, table games, and poker rooms. These casinos are operated by Native American tribes and are subject to federal and state regulations.

2. Racetracks: Horse racing is legal in Washington, and there are two racetracks in the state: Emerald Downs in Auburn and Seattle's Remlinger Farms. Both tracks offer live racing and pari-mutuel betting, as well as simulcast racing from other tracks across the country.

3. Sports Betting: Sports betting became legal in Washington in 2019, following the Supreme Court's decision to strike down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This allows individuals to place bets on professional and college sports at licensed sportsbooks and through mobile apps.

4. Poker Rooms: Washington has a few legal poker rooms, such as the Tulalip Resort Casino Poker Room and the Clearwater Casino Poker Room. These rooms offer a variety of poker games, including Texas Hold'em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud.

5. Bingo: As mentioned earlier, bingo is legal in Washington for individuals aged 18 and 19, as long as the proceeds are donated to a charity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Question: Can minors be present in a casino in Washington State?

Answer: Yes, minors are allowed to be present in a casino, but they are not allowed to participate in any gambling activities.

2. Question: Can individuals under 21 bet on sports in Washington?

Answer: Yes, individuals aged 18 and 19 can bet on sports in Washington, but they must do so at a racetrack or through an authorized sportsbook or mobile app.

3. Question: Is it legal to play poker with friends for money in Washington?

Answer: Yes, social gambling is legal in Washington, but it must meet specific criteria, such as not being for profit and having no admission fees.

4. Question: Can individuals aged 18 and 19 play bingo in Washington?

Answer: Yes, individuals aged 18 and 19 can play bingo in Washington, as long as the proceeds are donated to a charity.

5. Question: Is it legal to play online poker in Washington?

Answer: No, online poker is not legal in Washington. The state has not yet passed any legislation to regulate or legalize online poker.

In conclusion, the legal gambling age in Washington State is 21, but there are exceptions for certain activities, such as social gambling, horse racing, and bingo. Understanding the gambling age and the different forms of gambling available in Washington is crucial for anyone considering participating in the state's thriving gambling industry.