Massachusetts Considering Intrastate Online Poker LegislationDiscussions to Come Amidst Debate to Build Casinos |
|
Less than two years after lawmakers in the state of Massachusetts were considering criminalizing online poker, the state is now looking into expressly legalizing it as part of proposals to build the state’s first land-based casinos and expand gambling.
In April of 2010 the state had, under mounting criticism from poker players and the concern from the Poker Players Alliance, removed language under a soon-to-fail casino proposal that would have created a $25,000 fine and up to two years in prison for placing an online bet of any kind.
Despite the amendments the bill failed because of a controversial plan for slots at racetracks, as well as other disagreements on such things as minimum capital investment, according to masslive.com. Gov. Deval Patrick also opposed the measure
Fast forward to August 2011, and state officials filed a gaming bill that would allow three casinos and a slot parlor.
“We think it’s a home run for the citizens and taxpayers,” said State Rep. Joseph Wagner (D-Chicopee), chairman of the legislative committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies. “The fact that the committee is releasing a bill is an indication that there is support from the governor, the Senate president and the speaker.” Wagner said the House is looking to pass the bill sometime in September.
On Friday, the Boston Herald reported that Rep. Dan Winslow (R-Norfolk) is seeking to push a plan amidst the casino debate that would allow up to five licenses to operate intrastate Internet poker. The crux of the argument for Winslow is that online poker will benefit the state beyond what the proposed three casinos and one slot parlor could offer in terms of high-tech jobs and tax revenue.
The House plans to begin its expanded gambling debate on Wednesday afternoon.
Copyright © 2001-2024
CardPlayer.com. All rights reserved.
