Can I Play Online Blackjack for Real Money From New York State?

While sites like BetUS offer real money online blackjack (inluding live dealer) to those living in New York State, the state itself is yet to regulate i-Gaming.  That could be about to change.

New York state senator Joseph Addabbo introduced legislation on Thursday January 11, 2023 that would allow for regulated online casino gambling and internet gambling using apps.  BetUS utilizes a browser-based online casino.

Senate Bill S8185 has been referred to the New York Senate racing, gaming and wagering committee.

More specifically the bill looks "to amend the racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law, in relation to interactive gaming; and to amend the tax law, in relation to interactive lottery gaming."

The state's current land-based casinos may apply for a license as can three of the state's racetracks and the following tribes: St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, Seneca Nation of Indians and the Oneida Indian Nation of New York. They will also require a compact amendment.

Three additional licenses will be awarded through a bidding process.

The proposed tax will be among the highest in the US gaming market at 31.5% of base taxable gross gaming revenue. 

As for tax, license-holders will pay a rate of 31.5% of base taxable gross gaming revenue from igaming in New York.

The state is one of the few that can get away with taxing at this high a rate.  In December 2023, New York set a new state revenue record of $188.3m in online sports betting revenue.

The state intends to distribute $11m of the money collected for gambling addiction services.

- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com