Online Gambling in Oregon: What You Need to Know
Oregon has a nuanced approach to online gambling that combines strict regulation with limited access to legal betting platforms. While the state has a history of legal gambling through tribal casinos, state-run lotteries, and horse race betting, the scope of legally permitted online gambling is narrow and controlled.
Sports Betting: Legal But Limited
Online sports betting is legal in Oregon, but it is monopolized by the Oregon Lottery through its official platform, DraftKings Sportsbook. Previously, the lottery operated its own app called “Scoreboard,” but this was replaced by DraftKings in 2022. This means Oregonians can legally place online bets on sports, but only through the state-approved app. No other sportsbook operators such as FanDuel or BetMGM are allowed to operate legally within the state’s boundaries.
However, it’s important to note that college sports betting is prohibited on the DraftKings Oregon platform. Residents cannot wager on college games, teams, or players, even if the events take place out of state. The state’s policy is designed to protect amateur sports integrity.
Online Casino Gambling: Still Prohibited
Oregon does not permit any form of online casino gambling. This includes real-money online slot machines, blackjack, roulette, or poker. There are no state-licensed online casinos, and tribal casinos have not been authorized to offer remote gambling platforms. While tribal casinos can operate brick-and-mortar facilities with full gaming options, they are not allowed to extend those games to online platforms.
Many residents still access offshore online casinos, but these are not regulated or legal under Oregon law. Engaging with these platforms carries legal and financial risks, including lack of consumer protections and uncertain payout policies.
Online Poker: Not Authorized
Online poker is not legal in Oregon. There are no licensed platforms for poker tournaments or cash games, whether run by the state or tribal entities. Unlike states such as Nevada or New Jersey, Oregon has not passed legislation to regulate or tax online poker. Home poker games are legal for social play, but they must not involve a rake or house profit.
Daily Fantasy Sports: Unregulated But Accessible
Oregon does not have specific laws regulating Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel operate in the state under a legal gray area. There are no state-specific DFS licensing requirements or consumer protections. Despite this, Oregonians continue to participate in DFS contests for both free and real money, with little interference from state regulators.
Horse Racing: Limited Online Options
Online wagering on horse racing is permitted in Oregon through advance-deposit wagering (ADW) systems such as TVG, TwinSpires, and Xpressbet. These platforms are regulated by the Oregon Racing Commission and offer a legal way for residents to bet on races across the U.S. and internationally. Oregon is one of the few states that licenses and regulates ADW companies directly, making it a hub for horse race betting infrastructure.
Tribal Influence and Gambling Expansion
Oregon is home to nine federally recognized Native American tribes, several of which operate casinos under compacts with the state. While these agreements allow for physical gaming establishments, there has been no successful push to expand tribal gaming into the online space. The tribal governments have shown interest in broader gaming rights, but the state has been hesitant to allow expansion into internet-based gambling.
Conclusion
Online gambling in Oregon remains tightly controlled. Sports betting is legal but limited to a single operator. Online casino games and poker are illegal, and DFS exists in a legal limbo. While horse race betting is legally available through licensed ADW providers, the state has not embraced broader online gambling reforms. Residents looking to gamble online should be aware of the legal boundaries to avoid penalties or loss of funds through unregulated sites. Oregon’s future stance on online gambling will likely depend on broader national trends and negotiations with tribal stakeholders.
