As with most states in the country, gambling in Washington has a long history. You can find out about some of the most important milestones for gambling in Washington when you read below.
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1933
Legislation is passed that allows horse racing betting in the state.
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1971
Bingo and raffles are legalized by legislation.
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1972
Voters in the state approve SJR 5, which leads to gambling prohibition being repealed.
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1973
The Gambling Act creates the Washington State Gambling Commission, plus authorizes various forms of charitable gambling.
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1982
The state lottery is created due to budget pressures.
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1987
Off-track betting on horse racing is legalized.
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1988
The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act authorizes tribal casinos.
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1992
The state’s first tribal casinos are opened by the Tulalip Tribe and the Lummi Tribe.
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1997
Non-tribal card rooms are legalized by lawmakers.
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2006
Internet gambling is specifically prohibited by the Legislature.
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2020
Sports betting at tribal casinos is legalized. Mobile betting is also authorized, however only when a player is within the tribal casino.