With online poker legislation gaining steam as an increasing number of officials urge for the gambling niche to be allowed, it has been revealed that in Massachusetts an amendment to an online poker bill has been passed. Whilst a long road still lays ahead for the legalization of online poker, the fact that changes are being made is being welcomed by many.
Massachusetts Law
Whilst deemed to be insignificant in the overall terms of online poker amendments, the change was voted into the bill by 123 votes, with only 32 votes against. The Massachusetts Senate will vote next on September 26th, debating the legislation and ironing out any problematic discrepancies that may exist between bills passed in the Senate and in the House. After propositions have been made and a final draft drawn up, it will be up to Governor Deval Patrick to legalize the bill.
Online Poker Law for Massachusetts
Online poker legislation in the state of Massachusetts will require the official gaming commission to develop a specialized committee to oversee online poker establishments. Individuals will be responsible for creating and analyzing recommendations and models for online poker legislation, with a report due by the close of July 2012. If a positive recommendation is received, online poker can look forward to a prosperous future. However, with new proposals and legalization required after this initial report, Massachusetts may not gain live online poker until late 2013.
Federal Regulation for Online Poker Renewed
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Outside of Massachusetts is has been revealed that there have been renewed calls for online poker to be regulated at a federal level. US Attorney Preet Bharara revealed that Full Tilt Poker, one of the operations closed down earlier this year, had been running an international Ponzi scheme estimated to be worth $300m. However, despite federal permission, players have not received their deposits back, even though Bharara stated that over 20 shareholders and owners gained up to $443m profit.
Challenge for Online Poker Industry
The state of online poker remains inconsistent, and whilst amendments are made to bring about the legalization of the industry, the path is long and drawn out. And whilst officials spend time developing and drawing up bills, the challenge for gambling companies will be to keep the prospect of online poker alive.
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