The Wire Act

The Wire Act is a federal law enacted in 1961 that prohibits interstate wagering on sports events and contests using wire communications. Essentially, it makes it illegal to place bets or facilitate betting on sports through telephones or the internet across state lines. Originally aimed at combating organized crime, the law has significant implications for online gambling, as it restricts the ability of states to regulate and operate online sports betting across borders. Over the years, its interpretations have evolved, particularly concerning whether it applies to all forms of online gambling or just sports betting.