Gaming law is generally the law that applies to the gaming or gambling industry, including casinos, lotteries, horse racing, dog racing, sports betting, card games, table games, social gambling, bingo, raffles, slot machines, scratch tickets, etc. Gaming law includes state and federal statutes, rules, and regulations—and legal principles from traditional areas of law, such as contract law, administrative law, constitutional law, criminal law, and regulatory law. For example, the federal statute prohibiting illegal gambling businesses is located at 18 U.S.C. §1955.

In Rhode Island, gaming law encompasses the regulation of various forms of gambling, including casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and others. The state operates its own lottery, and casino gambling is legal at two state-licensed casinos. Rhode Island also permits sports betting, which was legalized in June 2018, allowing for both in-person and online wagering. The regulation of these activities is overseen by the Rhode Island Lottery Commission, which is responsible for licensing and ensuring compliance with state gambling laws. Additionally, federal laws such as the Illegal Gambling Business Act (18 U.S.C. §1955) also apply, prohibiting illegal gambling businesses that violate state law. It's important to note that while some forms of gambling are legal in Rhode Island, others, such as dog racing, are prohibited. The state's gaming laws are designed to ensure that gambling is conducted fairly, responsibly, and free from criminal influence.