Missouri Gambling Laws

There’s nothing surprising about Missouri gambling laws as they allow for similar forms of gambling as other US gambling laws.

Missouri gambling laws

Missouri gambling laws allow for almost all relevant forms of gaming, including pari-mutuel betting, lotteries, and casinos. Still, the state does not receive the recognition it deserves when it comes to gambling. Missouri is home to casinos with various caliber, including one named after the famous American author, Mark Twain, a native of Missouri.

In Missouri “a person engages in gambling when he or she stakes or risks something of value upon the outcome of a contest of chance or a future contingent event not under his or her control or influence.” Just like many other US gambling laws, Missouri gambling laws prohibit gaming unless its regulated and licensed by the legislature. The Missouri Gambling Commission is the licensing and regulating body, established in 1993.

Engaging in unlawful gambling is class C misdemeanor, which can be punished by 15 days in jail and a fine up to USD 300. Missouri gambling laws are specific about players, not only operators. put the Missouri Revised Statutes.

Casino gambling started with the return of riverboat casinos in 1992. First, these venues had to sail, but later they became docked for safety reasons. At the moment, there are 13 licensed casinos in Missouri, serving various needs. Some of them are luxurious, resembling Vegas casinos on a smaller scale. At these Missouri casinos, players can engage in various table games and even slots.

Despite the fact that pari-mutuel wagering is also a legal form of gambling in Missouri, there are no racetracks in the state. However, betting on horse races is still alive at annual fairs. Charitable gaming, like raffles and bingo, by non-profit organizations is allowed as well.

Online Gambling in Missouri

There are no licensed internet casinos in Missouri. Therefore, online gambling in Missouri would fall under the offense of illegal gaming. On the other hand, US gambling news says that in Missouri “it is perfectly legal to participate in an online poker tournament, but not to host one.” To avoid breaking the law, players should contact the relevant authorities for advice before engaging in online poker in Missouri.

Lotteries in Missouri

There’s one legal lottery in Missouri and that is the state lottery. The Missouri Lottery’s proceeds are used to support Missouri businesses and to provide public educational opportunities. Players cannot purchase tickets online as the “Missouri Lottery does not currently offer sales via the Internet.”

Daily Fantasy Sports in Missouri

Currently all major providers offer daily fantasy sports in Missouri. There’s a bill in front of the legislature, that would legalize fantasy sports in the state. More specifically, HB 1941 would exempt fantasy contest from under the umbrella of advanced gambling activities. The sponsor of the bill, Scott Fitzpatrick, said that daily fantasy sports are “more like the stock market than going to the casino.”