Betting on college sports, including hockey, can vary in legality depending on the state or province you are in, as well as the specific rules and regulations of the governing bodies involved. In the United States, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2018, which opened the door for states to legalize sports betting.
For the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), which is a major junior hockey league in Canada, betting would be subject to Canadian laws. In Canada, sports betting is primarily governed by the Criminal Code, which has traditionally been quite restrictive. However, the landscape has been changing, and provinces have been exploring legalizing single-event sports betting.
As of my last update, here are some general points to consider:
1. **Provincial Regulation**: Sports betting in Canada is regulated on a provincial level. The OHL, being a Canadian league, would fall under these regulations. For instance, the province of Ontario has taken steps to regulate online sports betting and gaming, with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) overseeing these activities.
2. **Single-Event Betting**: Historically, Canadian law only allowed for parlay betting (betting on multiple outcomes), but there has been a push to allow single-event sports betting. The Canadian government has been considering changes to the Criminal Code to permit this.
3. **Online Sportsbooks**: There are numerous online sportsbooks that accept bets from Canadian residents, including those on OHL games. However, the legal status of using these sites can vary, and it’s important to ensure that the site is reputable and operating within legal frameworks.
4. **Age Restrictions**: There are age restrictions on gambling in Canada, typically set at 19 years of age, although this can vary by province.
Before placing any bets on OHL hockey or any other sporting event, it is crucial to:
– Check the current laws in your jurisdiction.
– Ensure that the betting platform you are using is legal and regulated.
– Be aware of the risks associated with gambling.
Please note that the legal status of sports betting can change, and it is important to stay informed about the most recent developments in the law where you reside.