California Online Poker Bill Put on Hold for Now

Over the past three years, I have met with representatives from nearly every software provider, card room, gaming tribe, racetrack, and internet-poker operator who has an opinion on the subject. I gave my word to both supporters and opponents of AB 9 that my goal was consensus, and that I would not move forward with anything that achieved less than that. Mike Gatto;

Mr Gatto first introduced the bill in December, at a time where it appeared that there was a major possibility for online poker to be regulated in California in the near future. Other pro-online poker bills have also been created and introduced in the state, with one having been approved by a political committee back in April.

That bill has not progressed any further at this stage, partly as a result of a more frequent and fierce debate on the general issue of online poker regulation. Despite that, the second bill, which was introduced by Assemblyman Adam Gray, is more likely to be voted on given its progress in the political chain.

Because of that, the shelving of Mr Gatto’s Assembly Bill 9 may have an overall positive effect on the pro-regulation debateas it creates more focus for stakeholders.

While it previously appeared that online poker regulation in California was possible in 2015, this is looking less likely as the year goes on and debate on the issue continues with little apparent resolution.

Image: californiaonlinepoker.com