The evolution of technology and digital devices has transformed the way people approach their work and daily lives. Technology has streamlined tasks like never before. Those who live in Utah have convenient online access to shops, businesses, productivity tools, and even entertainment. It’s truly remarkable how much you can do online without having to leave your home nowadays.
Since not everyone has explored all that the internet has to offer, let’s take a look at what you can and can’t do online in Utah compared to other states. Warning: some of these options may encourage you to explore new websites or services.
You Can Buy Medical Cannabis Online (If You Qualify)
This may come as a shock to some, but you can legally purchase cannabis online in Utah. One very important factor is that the law applies to medical cannabis, not recreational. Patients who have a qualifying medical condition can purchase small amounts online and have it delivered to their home.
Recreational use of cannabis is illegal in Utah, which is why the online purchase is restricted to medical use only.
Cannabis for medical use or medical marijuana for adults was given the green light in November 2018. Marijuana can only be sold and bought at state-licensed facilities that are allowed to grow, test, process, and sell medical marijuana. Since the law was passed, it has undergone several minor changes, some of which have resulted in tighter restrictions and others that have loosened the rules.
If you are 18 years of age or older, a designated caregiver, a parent or a legal guardian of a minor patient who has a medical cannabis card, you can purchase cannabis within the state. The restrictions mainly focus on age and the amount that can be purchased within a specific timeframe.
Gambling and Sports Betting Are Strictly Banned
Sports betting is a popular form of online entertainment and a fun and immersive way to engage with sports. Although sports betting isn’t legal in every state, strict regulations related to age and other conditions apply even in states where it is legal.
In Utah, all forms of gambling—including poker, sports betting, lotteries, casinos, horse betting, charitable gaming, and bingo—are completely banned. When the Supreme Court gave its decision on legalizing sports betting back in 2018, Utah did not change its stance. It continued to enforce the gambling ban with no legal options available. There has been some talk in Utah over the years of potentially lifting some of the online restrictions, but all efforts have failed.
Therefore, if you’re looking for slot games with cash rewards, you’ll only be able to play them when you’re outside of Utah’s borders. Or you can also enjoy legal alternatives like social and sweepstakes casinos without any fear of legal repercussions.
Fantasy Leagues Fall Into a Gray Area
While not exactly the same, fantasy leagues are another entertainment source that has transformed thanks to online availability. Today you can join a fantasy league with friends or strangers. There’s no need to have a close-knit group of friends to take part in one of these leagues.
While Utah considers this a form of gambling, the rules surrounding it remain a gray area. Utah’s laws do not specifically mention daily fantasy sports or social sportsbooks, leaving their legality somewhat ambiguous.
Streaming Services Are Widely Available
Pretty much everyone has an online streaming platform of choice. It used to be that you had to sign up for a cable package to get a variety of TV shows, but streaming services have completely changed the game. People have access to blockbuster movies, popular television shows, sports games, news, and more. You may be wondering whether Utah has any limitations on streaming content.
To answer the question simply, Utah residents have access to all the top streaming platforms. What’s even cooler is that some streaming services are free. This can depend on where you live, meaning it varies by city and town.
A few of the most popular streaming services include:
- Netflix
- Hulu
- Peacock
- HBO Max
- Prime Video
- Fubo
- Apple TV+
- Sling TV
Each service and streaming app has its own pricing model, with some offering different tiers. If you’re trying to save money, look for a tier that is ad-supported. These are always the cheapest options.
Online Tobacco Sales Are Off Limits
How many times have you run out of cigarettes only to wish you could magically press a button and have them appear at your house? Unfortunately, that’s not reality, especially in Utah, where it is illegal to purchase any tobacco or cigarettes online.
This may be an inconvenience, but there’s a simple reason for the restriction. Tobacco products, including cigarettes, are classified as controlled substances and there is an age restriction for purchasing them. This restriction ensures that consumers purchase from licensed vendors who verify age. You must be at least 21 years old to purchase or have in your possession a tobacco product.
What about e-cigarettes, you ask? The same law applies: you must purchase the products in person. Ultimately, the law exists to enforce age regulations.
Know the Rules
With so many services, products, and entertainment available to people online, it can feel overwhelming. If you’re not careful, you may stumble upon a site that isn’t legitimate and could lead to you unknowingly making an illegal purchase. This list of things you can and can’t do online in Utah is a fabulous way to become better informed and protect yourself.
