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1972 Voters in the state approve SJR 5, which leads to gambling prohibition being repealed.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