The Washington State Gambling Commission has issued a warning that bracket pools, office sports pools, and fantasy sports have never been authorised as gambling activities in Washington State. The commission terms these activities as illegal.
Walla Walla County Prosecuting Attorney Jim Nagle explained the gambling laws in the Washington State.
“Your best bet, no pun intended, if you don’t want to figure out what the laws are and what you can and cannot do is go to one of the casinos on one of the tribal properties,” Nagle said.
In regards to the courts, Nagle explained private bets between people, in general, have no regulations. Nagle advises anyone with questions regarding bracket pools or sports office pools, to contact the Washington State Gambling Commission or visit the Commission’s website.
The Washington State Gambling Commission states on its website that the Washington State Constitution prohibits all gambling activities unless the activity is specifically authorised in state law. In 1973, when the Gambling Act was first passed, 100-square sports pool boards were authorised.
