Online gambling in Washington state is largely prohibited, with the state maintaining some of the strictest gambling laws in the United States. As a resident of Washington, I can confirm that it's a Class C felony to gamble online, making Washington one of the few states where online gambling is explicitly criminalized.

The Washington State Gambling Commission clearly states that all forms of internet gambling are illegal, including:

- Online casino games
- Online poker
- Online sports betting
- Daily fantasy sports

While there are some legal forms of gambling in Washington state, such as tribal casinos, card rooms, and the state lottery, these must be conducted in person at authorized locations. The state law (RCW 9.46.240) specifically prohibits the transmission of gambling information over the internet.

It's worth noting that there are some exceptions to these restrictions. For instance, advance deposit wagering on horse races is permitted through authorized platforms. Additionally, social gaming sites that don't involve real money are generally allowed.

The penalties for illegal online gambling in Washington can be severe:

- Up to 5 years in prison
- Fines up to $10,000
- Potential felony conviction on your record

Despite some pushback from residents and gambling advocates, Washington has maintained its strict stance on online gambling. While many other states have moved to legalize and regulate online gambling in recent years, Washington shows no immediate signs of changing its position.

For those seeking legal gambling options in Washington, I recommend sticking to:

- Licensed tribal casinos
- Authorized card rooms
- Washington State Lottery
- Licensed horse racing facilities

If you're interested in gambling online, you'll need to wait until the state laws change or travel to states where it's legal, such as Nevada or New Jersey. Always remember that using VPNs or offshore gambling sites to circumvent state laws doesn't make the activity legal and could result in serious legal consequences.

For the most current information about gambling laws in Washington, you can consult the Washington State Gambling Commission's website or speak with a legal professional. Laws can change, so it's important to stay informed about current regulations.

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