Sports, Casinos, and More: Understanding Arizona’s Gambling Laws

Fact Checked by Cox Izabella

Before participating in sports betting or casino gaming in Arizona, it is important to familiarize yourself with the state’s gambling laws. This article will give you the necessary information to help you feel confident when engaging in gambling activities in Arizona.

Introduction to Arizona Gambling Laws: An Overview of Gambling and Betting Regulations in AZ

✍️ Who Makes Arizona Gambling Laws?Arizona Legislature
Gambling Age:21
Legal Gambling Options:Casinos, Sports Gambling, Fantasy Sports Contests, Horse Racing
When Did AZ Gambling Legalize?1988
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Best Choice
Caesars Sports
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Must be 21+ and present in AZ. T&Cs apply.
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Must be a new verified Betway customer & present in AZ. 21+. Opt-in may be req'd. Make your first min. deposit of $10+, place a wager up to $250 (with odds of –300 (1.33) or greater (i.e. -300, -150, +150, etc.)) and receive up to $250 as bonus bet funds if the wager loses. Wager must be settled within 7 days from new account opening Gambling problem? Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ).
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Must be 21+ and present in AZ. T&Cs apply.
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Must be 21+ to participate & present in Arizona. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700
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Must be 21+ to participate & present in Arizona. T&Cs apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP.

Is it legal to gamble in Arizona?

Gambling in Arizona has been legalized at various times, with the majority of activities currently allowed under state law. The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act of 1988 was a key legislation that permitted gambling on Native American lands, resulting in the creation of several tribal casinos. Online sports betting, however, was not legalized until 2021.

Who is responsible for creating gambling laws in Arizona?

The Arizona Legislature is instrumental in shaping gambling regulations within the state. Both chambers, the House and Senate, collaborate to develop legislation that complies with federal guidelines. Proposed gambling laws in Arizona require approval from both the Senate and House before becoming enforceable.

What is the function of the Arizona Department of Gaming?

The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) is the main regulatory body overseeing gambling activities in Arizona. They are responsible for monitoring and enforcing state laws related to casino gambling and sports betting. While the Arizona Legislature sets the regulations for gambling, the ADG is in charge of ensuring that both retail and online operators comply with these laws.

Arizona’s updated gambling laws are now in effect.

Arizona’s newest gambling laws center around the approval of sports betting. In April 2021, Governor Ducey approved HB 2772, permitting individuals aged 21 and above to engage in sports betting in Arizona. Following this, a variety of online and physical sportsbooks have launched operations in the state.

Gambling in Arizona: Laws and Various Forms of Wagering

Arizona offers a variety of gambling options, each governed by its own set of laws. It is crucial to understand the regulations that apply to the specific type of gambling you are interested in.

Arizona Casino Laws

In 1988, Arizona passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, legalizing casino gambling on Indian reservations. The Arizona Department of Gaming oversees these casinos, which provide a variety of popular games such as slot machines, baccarat, and poker.

Currently, online casinos are not allowed in Arizona, so if you want to play casino games, you will need to visit a brick-and-mortar casino. Some popular options in the state include Desert Diamond Casino West Valley and Gila River Resort at Wild Horse Pass.

Arizona Sports Gambling Laws

Arizona recently implemented new laws regulating online sports gambling. A major development occurred on April 21, 2021, when HB 2772 was passed, legalizing sports betting in the state. As a result, retail sportsbooks are now allowed to operate at professional sports venues and on Native American land.

Residents of Arizona have the opportunity to engage in online sports betting within the state’s limits. Various reputable online sportsbooks, including BetMGM Sportsbook and ESPN BET, are available for selection.

Arizona Lottery Laws

Established following the general election on November 4, 1980, the Arizona State Lottery Commission has allowed residents of Arizona to participate in both state and multi-state lotteries. Arizona provides a variety of lottery games, including scratch-off tickets and well-known draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions. Individuals must be at least 21 years of age to play lottery games in Arizona.

Laws governing horse and dog racing in Arizona

The history of horse racing and dog racing in Arizona has been characterized by periods of both legalization and prohibition. While greyhound racing was once a popular activity, it was outlawed in 2016, resulting in the closure of all dog tracks in the state. On the other hand, horse racing has remained legal and a cherished tradition in Arizona for more than a century, with prominent venues such as the Rillito Park Race Track and Turf Paradise. Like other forms of gambling, individuals must be at least 21 years old to legally wager on horse races.

Important Arizona Gambling Tax Laws to Be Aware Of

Gambling winnings in Arizona are taxable, so it’s important to remember these key details.

  • Gambling winnings in Arizona are subject to a federal tax rate of 24%.
  • The gambling tax rates in Arizona vary between 2.59% and 4.50%.
  • The tax on net profits from mobile gambling for operators is 10%, while the tax on net profits from retail gambling is 8%.

If you are a resident of Arizona, you must pay a federal tax rate of 24% on gambling income, along with a state gambling tax that varies between 2.59% and 4.50% based on your income and marital status. To figure out how much you may owe in taxes, you can use the Arizona Tax Calculator and learn about the state’s gambling tax regulations.

Arizona Gambling Law FAQs

Author

Edwards Urina

Edwards Urina is a dedicated freelance sports writer who was born in the U.S. and raised in Canada. With a passion for American and Canadian sports, he is committed to providing up-to-date information on Arizona sports betting.

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