Can You Play Online Poker in Connecticut?

No. You cannot play online poker in Connecticut – at least not yet. Online poker used to be considered illegal in Connecticut for years. The situation has changed as it is now legalized. However, despite this development, residents of the state still don't have access to online poker options. It remains uncertain whether this situation will change in the future or if it will remain the same.

Why Not? What Are the Online Poker Laws in Connecticut?

At present, poker enthusiasts in Connecticut are unable to play poker due to a lack of operators rather than any legal restrictions. In 2021, a significant milestone was achieved when HB 6451 was signed into law by the government of Connecticut. This legislation not only legalized poker within the state but also granted permits to two online gambling platforms. As a result Connecticut became the U.S. State to legalize poker.

However, despite this step, there are currently no operational online poker rooms within the state. This unfortunate circumstance means that players are unable to engage in gameplay opportunities at present. The two gaming tribes that hold rights as per law – Mohegans and Mashantucket Pequots – have yet to introduce any online poker platforms, leaving enthusiasts eagerly anticipating their arrival.

While these tribes possess experience with sports betting and other forms of gambling, they do not have prior experience with operating an online poker platform. Connecticut’s online gambling market is relatively small, which doesn't provide motivation for investing in the development of an online poker platform.

While we wait for access to poker in the future, players in Connecticut can opt to play real-money poker on offshore poker sites. However, playing on these offshore sites carries inherent risks, even though they do welcome players from Connecticut.

MyPokerCoaching does not endorse playing poker on these sites. These sites are unregulated in the United States, which means local authorities have no control over their activities. There’s no guarantee of fair play, and nothing can be done about any fraud or illegal occurrences on these platforms.

Potential Connecticut Poker Sites to Launch in the Future

Poker has been popular in Connecticut for many years, but the state is still to regulate online poker sites. There have been several attempts at it over the years, but so far, none have come to fruition.

It is a pretty safe bet that online poker in CT will be regulated at some point in the future, so the only real question is when. While it’s hard to give any definitive answer at this point in time, we continue to monitor the situation and will keep you updated with any important developments.

When online poker is finally legal in CT, there are a few sites that we can expect to go live. These are all operators with a major presence in the regulated US market, and they’ll likely jump at the opportunity to expand their presence.

BetMGM Poker Connecticut

BetMGM has established itself as a household name in the regulated US online poker space, and the operator will likely be among the first to stake a claim in such an attractive new market.

We expect BetMGM Poker will bring out a platform similar to that in other states like PA, MI, and NJ. A poker client powered by the PartyPoker technology offers a modern and very reliable solution for all online poker fans, even if it is not as rich in functionalities as some other platforms.

In terms of game variety, players can look forward to a nice mix of online tournaments, a wide range of cash game stakes, and, in all likelihood, BetMGM Poker’s staple SPINS – a hugely popular sit & go variation featuring a random jackpot.

It is also likely that BetMGM Poker CT will come out of the gate swinging, offering a generous welcome bonus. With what’s likely to be heavy competition in the state, all sites will look for ways to stand out, and this is generally a good thing for the players.

PokerStars Connecticut

Although the company couldn’t enter the US before 2016, PokerStars has established itself as a staple name of online poker in the country, just like they have done in the global market.

Once the regulation is finally passed, the launch of PokerStars is pretty much a guarantee. This is especially true if the state passes a law with the expectation of joining the MSIGA, as the operator seems eager to take advantage of opportunities provided by interstate poker.

But even without that particular element, CT is a big enough market on its own.

What PokerStars brings to the table is the operator’s experience in organizing major online series, first and foremost. US versions of ‘COOP events have been hugely successful in all states where the site currently has a presence, and there is no reason to think Connecticut would be an exception.

PokerStars also offers one of the best software solutions for desktop computers and mobile devices alike. This enhances the player experience and certainly helps push the site towards the top of the list when deciding where to play.

WSOP Connecticut

The third CT poker site likely to go live as soon as legal requirements are met is WSOP.com. Right now, WSOP is the only operator present in all regulated US markets with active poker sites, and the company is on the constant lookout for expansion opportunities.

WSOP.com has one trump card that no other operators can match, which is its ability to host bracelet-awarding events and exclusive satellites to live World Series of Poker tournaments. This has helped the operator remain competitive across the country.

A launch in a new state would likely mean an exclusive bracelet series, giving players in the state great opportunities to win some WSOP silverware from the comfort of their home, and if past experience is any indicator, this is an opportunity that players jump on.

WSOP should have no problem claiming its fair share of the new market despite competitors, with the operators’ numbers surging during major live and online events.