If you’re still not 100% sure whether it would be a good idea, make sure to consult your lawyer. However, there are no explicit bans on offshore websites, which means you don’t need to worry about registering on them. The trick here is that New York says you’re still gambling even if the game you’re betting on requires some skill. So, will you break any rules by joining an offshore site and downloading their app? The New York Penal Code section 225.00 defines gambling as staking or risking something of value on a game of chance. Until that happens, enthusiasts in New York can opt to enjoy social and sweepstakes options (such as Global Poker) for free or join an offshore-licensed platform. This would pave the way for the legalization of poker sites. This proposal aims to amend state law and redefine poker, introducing it as a game of skill rather than chance. The last bill that failed was introduced in 2022, but it was reintroduced in 2023 by Assemblyman Gary Pretlow. In other words, there’s an initiative to legalize the web-based version of the popular card game, so it can be expected that, sooner or later, a poker-related bill will gain enough traction to become law. However, we’d like to stress the word “ still”, as there have been several attempts so far, though most of them have failed to pass muster. Online poker is still not licensed in New York. Most sweepstake and offshore sites also offer mobile apps, and we’ll guide you through installing them and starting your online gambling journey. Even without any state-licensed possibilities, New Yorkers have two major internet-based options: sweepstake poker sites (for free) or offshore poker platforms (for real money). Unfortunately, the online version of the game still hasn’t been legalized in New York, although that might happen in the near future, as you’ll see further below. Nowadays, residents can enjoy the game inside several commercial and tribal casinos, which offer big poker rooms along with a range of cash games and tournaments. Poker clubs have been available in New York since the 19th century, meaning the Empire State has a rich card culture. By Adrian Sterne Updated: August 24, 2023

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