Online poker has been a subject discussed in yet another state of the US. On Wednesday, a Senate Committee in Washington State met to review online poker gaming with regulation and taxation among topics that were discussed. Currently in the state, online poker is a criminalized activity based on state law. Attempts have been made in the past to repeal the law from 2006 but nothing has happened yet.
An online poker bill has yet to be introduced by legislators but the hearing held by the Committee on Commerce, Labor & Sports included testimony from those who know poker best including the Poker Players Alliance. John Pappas, the Executive Director for the PPA, stated to lawmakers during the hearing that thousands of residents in Washington State already gamble via offshore sites where no local oversight or protection is provided. The committee has the ability to decide if they will protect the consumers online.
Pappas further stated that online gaming regulation should not be considered a way of expanding gambling in the state but as an opportunity to protect consumers along with adding a new distribution channel for the existing gaming industry of the state.
Last November, a report was produced by Spectrum Gaming Group for the Gaming Commission of the state that estimated as much as $100 million in annual revenues could be generated with an online gambling market. This amount could increase even further once the market is able to mature.
By the committee discussing the subject of online poker gaming, it could be that we see the state introducing a measure to legalize the option in the future. Only time will tell if lawmakers are willing to move forward and join Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey with offering legalized and regulated online poker gaming.
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