Is Online Gambling Legal in Georgia? State Law Guide 2024

Is Online Gambling Legal in Georgia? State Law Guide 2024

By Michael Davidson

January 29, 2025 at 03:07 AM

Online gambling in Georgia (US state) is currently illegal, with very limited exceptions. I'll break down the key aspects of Georgia's gambling laws and what's permitted.

The state of Georgia has strict regulations when it comes to online gambling. Currently, the only legal forms of online gambling are:

• The Georgia Lottery's online platform
• Fantasy sports betting through approved operators

All other forms of online gambling are prohibited, including:

• Online casino games
• Online poker
• Online sports betting
• Offshore gambling websites

It's important to note that while some offshore gambling sites may accept players from Georgia, using these platforms is illegal under state law. Participating in unauthorized gambling activities can result in misdemeanor charges.

The Georgia Lottery offers several online options through its official website, including:

• Digital lottery ticket purchases
• Keno games
• Interactive instant win games

Daily fantasy sports operate in a legal gray area in Georgia. While not explicitly legalized through legislation, major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel continue to serve Georgia residents.

Looking ahead, there have been several attempts to legalize online sports betting in Georgia. The most recent legislative efforts in 2023 failed to pass, but supporters continue pushing for legalization. Any changes to current online gambling laws would require either:

• A constitutional amendment
• New legislation passed by the Georgia General Assembly

For Georgia residents seeking legal gambling options, the safest approach is to stick with:

• The official Georgia Lottery website
• Licensed fantasy sports platforms
• Land-based charitable gaming events
• Social gaming sites with no real-money prizes

The penalties for illegal gambling in Georgia can include:

• Misdemeanor charges
• Fines up to $1,000
• Potential jail time up to 12 months

I recommend consulting with a legal professional for specific questions about gambling laws, as regulations can change and interpretations may vary.

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