The MGM casino in Springfield, Massachusetts, has been fined $18,000 for three violations, including underage gambling and underage drinking, after an investigation from the state Gaming Commission.
According to reports, the casino allowed a seventeen-year-old patron to gamble for nearly two hours and was served complimentary drinks after security failed to check for proper identification. The teen was caught when he tried to cash out, and the cashier alerted the security team.
Another incident occurred when a twenty-year-old player was allowed access to the casino after presenting his id. The twenty-year-old player was dealt three hands of blackjack before the dealer requested to see his identification and noticed the patron was under the legal gambling age set by the state.
Security team protocol states that anyone under thirty must present valid identification. MGM accepted the $18,000 fine to settle the three violations in December 2022 and January 2023.
Massachusetts Legal Gambling Age
The legal gambling age by state varies depending on the outlet and specific state laws, but for Massachusetts, the casino gambling age is set at 21+. To bet on sports or DFS in Mass., you must also be over 21, but residents can bet on the lottery over 18.
Online Gambling In Massachusetts
There are no domestic casinos in Mass. that offer their games online. However, 18+ online casinos operate legally from offshore. Massachusetts has eight online sports betting sites that operate from within the state, but there are also sports betting sites that operate from outside the state.
The only option 18-year old’s have for gambling in Massachusetts is offshore sites that operate legally in all 50 states.
Online Gambling Perks
One reason so many people choose to gamble online is that online casinos and sports books will accept players over 18 and the perks offered by online gambling sites. Some extras include cryptocurrency banking options, welcome bonuses, and reward programs.
Online casino games also offer free spins, bonus points, and more, depending on your chosen game. Online casino games are similar to what you will find on the casino floor, with popular games like blackjack, video poker, baccarat, roulette, and much more.