North Dakota Sports Betting: No Legal North Dakota Online Bookies
After the failed attempt to legalize sports betting in 2019, there were no follow-up actions from the residents of North Dakota. Currently, there are no legally operating bookmakers on the territory of the state. In this article, we’ll share valuable information about the North Dakota sports betting status and history!
- This Site Contains:
- Overview of the North Dakota Online Betting Law
- North Dakota Gambling History and Future
- Offshore Sports Betting Sites in North Dakota
Although North Dakota still opposes the new wave aiming to change the US betting map, there are a few alternatives. The state successfully legalized pari-mutuel wagering on horses and gaming. In addition, residents over 21 years of age can participate in the North Dakota Lottery games, including Mega Millions.
Players can also use offshore online sites for gambling, but they are not regulated by any local authorities. Experts predict that sports betting will soon be allowed, and the first books will open. However, after the unsuccessful vote in 2019, a new one did not follow in 2020.
The Legal Status of North Dakota Online Sports Betting Sites
For the time being, there are no North Dakota online sports betting sites operating legally. Nevertheless, the state’s residents can use foreign online bookmakers. This could be a risky deed since there is no way to raise a dispute if necessary. Betting on sports events is still illegal.
Legal Options for North Dakota Residents
Even though the North Dakota residents don’t have legal online sports betting options, the state provides plenty of similar entertainment. Punters can visit the several off-track and pari-mutuel horse racing facilities in Fargo and Belcourt or the Indian land-based casinos. In the next paragraphs, we’ll explain more about them.
The first legal North Dakota sportsbook is eagerly expected. We are optimistic and believe that it’s just a matter of time. A good example is the long-waited Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act passed in 2006. Of course, it’s difficult to completely compare the sports betting wagers with Daily Fantasy Sports!
Land Based Casinos & Sportsbooks in North Dakota
Since the activity is prohibited, there are no brick & mortar ND sports betting facilities. Instead, the state provides several tribal casinos, offering excellent gambling and accommodation services. The biggest one is in Bismarck – 4 Bears Casino & Lodge, with a gaming floor size of more than 120,000 square feet!
Other options the state provides are Dakota Magic Casino, Prairie Knights Casino & Resort, and Spirit Lake Casino & Resort. Each of the mentioned locations offers slot machines, jackpots, and table games, like roulette, poker, dice, and blackjack. Finally, we would like to mention Southgate Casino Bar & Grill in Grand Forks, ND.
Daily Fantasy Sports in North Dakota
Daily Fantasy Sports were designated as games of luck and allowed in 2006. The sports gambling North Dakota fans can legally play virtuals against other players. In short, DFS is an accelerated variant of Fantasy Sports, with a pot prize and entry fee. There are various leagues and contests.
The lack of local online sportsbooks in the state makes Daily Fantasy Sports very attractive. You can win decent money participating in such virtual tournaments and end them often within the same day. Players love this as they are in control of their own team or assets.
Horse Racing in North Dakota
The pari-mutuel betting on horses has been legal in North Dakota since 1987. Currently, there are a couple of racetracks – ND Horse Park in Fargo and Chippewa Downs in Belcourt. Both bookmakers accept different types of wagers. Traditional bets are Win, Place, and Show, but exotic ones are also available.
Familiarize yourself with Daily Double, Exacta, Trifecta, and Superfecta! These wagers are riskier but bring bigger excitement and, eventually, profits. Besides pari-mutuel betting, North Dakota offers several OTB locations. You can mix the off-track wagering with drinks and snacks in the sports bars located in Belcourt, Fargo, and Grand Forks.
Poker Rooms in North Dakota
The sports gambling locations in North Dakota are not allowed to organize poker tables outside of major tournaments, like WSOP. Casino-style games can be played only in the tribal facilities mentioned earlier in this article. They are allowed to collect rake from poker hands, an activity that is generally illegal.
Only licensed operators can do that in order to guarantee fair chances to all players. Poker is no ordinary card game! Poker players don’t play against the House but against other people. The rake is the commission that the House is allowed to take as compensation.
| Betting Type | Legal | Regulatory Body |
|---|---|---|
| 🏈 Online Sports Betting | Yes | None |
| 🎰 Online Casinos | Yes | None |
| ⚾ Daily Fantasy Sports | Yes | None |
| 🏢 Land-Based Casinos | Yes | American Gaming Association |
| 🏨 Land-Based Sportsbooks | No | None |
| 🃏 Poker Rooms | Yes | American Gaming Association |
| 🏇 Racetrack Betting | Yes | The North Dakota Racing Commission |
| 🎫 State-Sponsored Lottery | Yes | North Dakota Lottery |
Offshore Bookies in North Dakota
The lack of North Dakota sports betting sites doesn’t mean that punters are completely isolated from wagering. Plenty of offshore bookies and operators are accessible from the state. Nevertheless, they are officially illegal and have a huge potential to be scams. There is no ND authority responsible for their licensing.
The offshore operators surely have permits issued by major international regulators. But they can’t protect your rights on US territory. It’s all up to the online bookies’ will to decide whether to payout your winnings or not! Those betting sites could be attractive but may hide unpleasant surprises, too!
Pending Sportsbook Legislation Status in North Dakota
Since the approval of the charity gaming in 1977, the North Dakota residents are regularly voting to pass additional changes. Thanks to their efforts, in 1987, the pari-mutuel wagering on horses also became legit. Even so, the North Dakota sports betting status remains unchanged until today!
It applies to online activities, although discussions have been held. In 2019, voters had the chance to amend the constitution in its part affecting wagering on sports and online poker, but the bill was rejected. However, the hope is still alive, and supporters are looking for the 2022-planned referendum.
If the result is negative once again or the referendum is not held, the next possible date will be in November 2024 during the state’s elections. The Senate seems firm in its position, categorically rejecting a proposal of the Indian casinos to open on their territories exclusive sportsbooks.
The benefit for the state in terms of licensing fees and taxes is unquestionable, but the Senate is worried about the impact on the community. Advocates and analysts say that a lot of money goes to unlicensed bookmakers, and this can be interrupted only by a robust regulated market.
Prior Legalization Attempts in North Dakota
In 2018, the Supreme Court ruled to cancel the federal ban on sports betting. Every state received the power to decide whether to authorize it or wait. Supporters of the North Dakota online sports betting quickly pushed a bill in 2019, but it was rejected after a 37-8 vote.
The House Resolution 3032 and House Bill 1234 from 2021 were both defeated in and outside the Senate. The first one aimed to allow voters to answer questions related to sports betting during the planned referendum in 2022. The Resolution passed in the House but was rejected in the Senate.
Despite the unsatisfactory result, the United Tribes Gaming Association made another attempt in 2021. The proposal included an exclusive license for the state’s tribal casinos. Their strongest arguments are the experience and existing infrastructure. Creating North Dakota sportsbook retailers and online sports betting sites under Association’s control is logical.
Nevertheless, the proposal was also rejected, and a potential solution is now possible no earlier than 2024 when the next Senate session will be. The prospects for a positive solution remain unlikely after the Fargo and Jamestown senators expressed their worries. The social cost is unacceptable despite the tax revenue!
Current ND Legislation
The ND sports betting discussions apply to retail shops and online sites. It seems that the idea has enough supporters in the House but meets heavy opposition in the Senate. Online betting is quite trendy now around the world and the largest bookmakers have already stepped into the US.
It’ll be childish to consider that the North Dakota residents eager to gamble will stay away from those platforms. On the contrary, they can be scammed and left with no legal help. This aspect is even more important than the money the state loses from unrealized fees and taxes!
- Increased tax revenue
- More jobs in North Dakota
- Safer betting environment
- Potential regulatory issues
- Potential for increases in gambling addiction
- Won’t eliminate scam betting sites
Despite the narrow support, republican senators are those sponsoring the bills in sports betting favor. The motivation was clear – additional tax revenue, more jobs in the state, and a potentially regulated environment. On the flip side, the opposition insisted that even if all that happens, the final results are uncertain.
The market regulations in other states are not sufficient enough to eliminate scammers and fraud platforms. Illegal bookies will always provide better odds and larger wagering caps, attracting underaged or regular punters. Still, the benefits seem to outweigh the disadvantages, and the business will most probably continue with their attempts.
The Outlook for Pending Legislation
In the light of sports betting legalization in other US states, the bill will pass in ND, too. Given the history of how things are done in the Flickertail State, it may need some time. South Dakota is already loosening restrictions, so we can expect the same in the north.
The North Dakota sports betting ban will probably be removed in 2024 or 2025. Perhaps the Democrats will be more positive this time and vote in its favor. In addition, there are more and more rumors about the upcoming opening of Dakota Nation Sports Book kiosks in the tribal casinos.
What Legal Online Sports Betting Would Look Like in North Dakota
The original bill from 2019 for legalizing North Dakota online sports betting stipulates that the process will be overseen by the state Attorney General. The UTGA declared its will and ability to provide support. A kiosk in their land-based halls where punters place their wagers looks like a great first step.
They can even watch the most popular events on live streams while having a drink or snack. Probably the Senate fears that if they allow this, the rest will follow. If sports betting becomes legal, North Dakota will become the least-populated state that allowed it.
The additional revenue generated by the online betting sites is one of the most significant arguments of the bill supporters. Since gambling is legal in North Dakota, we can even speak in numbers. The federal tax rate is 24% and we must add the state’s income tax rate too!
It’s progressive and one of the lowest – 1.10% to 2.90%. The W-2G form will ensure the tax collection, the same way as in casinos. It’s mandatory for bettors in case they end a session with a certain amount of winnings. The minimum is $1,200 for gambling profits.
Plans for Future Legalization of Online Betting Sites in ND
Besides the new bill-passing attempt planned for 2022, there are no other legalization plans for future North Dakota sportsbook sites. The online gambling remains shrouded in mist at least until the Senate meets. Brands like Draft Kings and BetMGM are ready to step in if they are granted a license.
If all states legalize online sports betting sites, North Dakota will surely follow their example. The last attempt failed because of only a few votes, and maybe the next time, they will be on the other side of the line. The current crisis could be the triggering point!
Online vs. In-Person Betting
The ND sports betting is on the edge of legalization! Probably it is a good idea to discuss the main differences between online and in-person betting. First, we’ll point out the obvious facts – variety, convenience, and comfort. The online sports gambling platforms provide a better variety of sports and wagers.
Moreover, they can provide all events from exotic markets, usually inaccessible at the retail shops. At the same time, you can use your browser to do research about teams, players, and historical data. You can place your wagers from the comfort of your home or anywhere else via the app!
Fans of in-person wagering would say that often the odds in the retail shops are better. Well, that may be true for the US leagues, but not for any foreign events. The online sportsbooks provide enhanced odds and other types of bonuses, making the final coefficients pretty lucrative.
You’ll hardly find promotions in the land-based betting facilities. On the other hand, these shops, bars, and racetracks are gathering points for many punters. You can share your thoughts and even learn some useful last-minute information. Forums are the online equivalent of that, but it’s just not the same!
The sports gambling North Dakota locations accepting bets have a serious advantage unavailable at most online books. Punters can cancel their bets if the event hasn’t started yet. You may change your mind or find better odds elsewhere. All online wagers are final, and you must wait for the settlement.
The best sports betting online platforms offer features like early cashouts, same game parlays, live betting, and streaming. They increase the entertaining element and open new opportunities for players. Finally, we’ll say that betting online is more convenient as the whole process takes a minute or two.
Online betting, undoubtedly, has many advantages. What we didn’t mention is that the platforms operate 24/7. You can wager on the live events or prepare your bet slip for tomorrow. Many bookies offer to store your bets before you officially confirm them. Thus, you can compare the odds later.
Another advantage is the massive selection of sports, markets, and betting types. You can literally wager on anything! Furthermore, payouts are usually higher, there are free-for-download mobile apps and outstanding bonuses and promo deals. Newly registered punters often receive risk-free bets and other incentives!
If North Dakota lawmakers decide to legalize online sports betting and regulate the market, that will be only beneficial to punters. Bookmakers operating in the state will be forced to apply certain rules, helping gamblers. Features like self-exclusion policies and betting and depositing limits are unavailable in the retail locations.
Moreover, the online operators will have to prove that all gambling games are tested for fairness. They will have to guarantee that they have enough money to pay if the jackpots fall. Gamblers will have the right to raise a legal dispute if they feel cheated or mistreated.
The state will also benefit from regulating the industry! Many people will prefer to wager legally instead of using unlicensed bookies. The collected taxes can be used for social purposes. And since it’s an entirely different type of entertainment, this will hardly affect the land-based operators.
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preferences whether you are going to bet in person or use an online sportsbook. The social element or the fast and flexible platform? Well, it’s totally up to you, but just remember to use a verified operator!
The History of Online Sports Gambling in North Dakota
Different authorities and organizations take care of the legal forms of gambling in the state! The Indian land-based facilities are part of the United Tribes Gaming Association or UTGA. The North Dakota Attorney General is responsible for the charity gaming and the state’s Government, for the ND lottery.
North Dakota sports betting is still officially illegal. We can’t say for sure who will be responsible for licensing and regulating the market. Most probably, this will be in the jurisdiction of North Dakota’s Attorney General. In the table below, you can see the highlights of the state’s gambling history!
In 1992, the US Supreme Court introduced the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act or PASPA. The purpose of the law was to determine the legal status of sports betting in the USA. It was almost entirely outlawed, with the exception of Nevada, Oregon, Delaware, and Montana.
PASPA was struck down in 2018 and every state was granted the right to proceed with sports betting legalization. The US Supreme Court ruled that the Act violates the Tenth Amendment of the US Constitution. New Jersey and several other states legalized sports betting during the same year!
Potential Licensing Requirements
Potential licensing of the North Dakota online sports betting industry will lead to certain changes. The regulating bodies are not just responsible for collecting licensing fees and taxes. They also apply rules mandatory for the bookmakers. All companies need to pass strict checks before being approved for a license.
Moreover, the betting permits have an expiration date and must be renewed. The licensing authorities can refuse if they have imposed penalties in the previous period. The license cost is different but may reach $125,000 or even more for a period of two years.
Every online North Dakota sportsbook will have to pay an operating tax as well. All this is the fiscal aspect of sports betting legalization. The social element is even more important. The only 100% secure way to gamble is through a legit operator! Everything else presupposes fraud!
There are no legal actions or recourse against black market sites. You can’t seek your rights, and even worse, you can be punished as an individual under the UIGEA law. These operators are also illegal under the Act, but it is very difficult to prove their guilt.
Black Market Bookmakers Operating in North Dakota
In this table, you can find the illegal online betting sites in North Dakota! It’s crucial for everyone to avoid them at any cost. At first sight, the black market operators offer attractive conditions and bonuses. The odds are great, and the variety of sports events, enormous.
However, these sites aren’t regulated in North Dakota and can steal your money or simply refuse to pay you. There is no way for legal recourse if you raise a dispute. In light of that, the black market books are dangerous! Your money is the least they can steal.
The sketchy operators may sell your personal data and banking details to the highest bidder too! This could make you vulnerable to hacker attacks. The only way to avoid that is by trusting only reputable and properly licensed sports betting sites. You can also check other punters’ feedback.
Visit our page regularly as we often update our list with non-licensed online bookmakers. Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of inexperienced players exactly in poorly regulated markets such as North Dakota. Hopefully, this will change soon, but have in mind the currently unregulated online platforms for sports betting!
- ⛔️ 1XBet
- ⛔️ Bovada
- ⛔️ BetOnline
- ⛔️ BetDSI
- ⛔️ SportsBetting.ag
- ⛔️ CarbonGaming.ag
- ⛔️ MyBookie
- ⛔️ BetUS
- ⛔️ Xbet
- ⛔️ 22bet
- ⛔️ 5Dimes
Conclusion – North Dakota Betting Sites are Illegal
We hope that this North Dakota sports betting article was useful to you! The situation is complicated, but it is no different than in other states still striving to license online sportsbooks. Undoubtedly, that will be a great relief for many residents passionate about wagering on sports.
We did our best to deliver up-to-date information about what has been done and what are the state’s future plans. Obviously, the project has many supporters in the House and the Senate. After two failed attempts, perhaps the third will finally be successful. But before that, online sportsbooks remain illegal!
We keep a close eye on the North Dakota online sports betting situation! If anything changes, we’ll be the first to let you know, so make sure to check our page frequently. Meanwhile, you can try the alternative forms of gambling offered by the state and the tribal land-based casinos.
Besides using illegal online bookmakers and violating UIGEA, you can bet in person or play various gambling games. Sky Dancer Casino & Resort and the other highlighted locations offer slots, video poker, blackjack, and roulette. You can also visit the North Dakota racetracks and sports bars!
FAQs
Read the following FAQ paragraphs if you have any additional questions about North Dakota sports betting. We always strive to deliver the most comprehensive information in our guides, but often our readers have additional inquiries. If our dedicated replies below are not enough, feel free to contact us by email!