Today at Sport Media Network we will briefly examine the question that we have been confronted with several times as of late. What can we expect to happen in the Poker industry during 2010? In today’s fast changing world and so many things going on in front of us at present, especially in the US poker world,
it could be the time we sit back and speculate on what we can expect from the online poker legislation front by the end of this year 2010. Is it possible that we will see the repeal of the UIGEA and will the PPA be able to get online poker approved on a federal level in the United States?
In order for that, we must recognize the huge hurdles that are facing the industry in terms of opposition, existing legislation, and certainly time constraints. As it goes, analysts are very skeptical as to whether any major changes may be made that govern this legislation at a federal level, because it will be quite improbable to convert Congressional Democratic leadership in such a short space of time. However, on a state level changes are definitely happening as we discuss the issues. It is believed that either New Jersey or Florida will be the first states to approve intrastate online gambling and/or online poker playing. With much opposition in other states, it is expected that some of these states will follow suit, if only to get the ball started in the direction of legalizing poker.
Is it possible to hope that implementation of the UIEGA will be delayed once again? Experts certainly seem to think it will happen, which would give online poker operators and banks, another grace period of at least six months. One must understand that it also means that if Barney Frank’s bill is not heard in this session it can still be introduced in the next session.
In California experts are of the opinion that they need to seriously examine the option of providing itself with a steady stream of income. Based on its current deficit problems and online poker could provide just that, a legalized, regulated and taxed system of intrastate poker. They say, “Time is of the essence. Every day we wait means millions of dollars in potential revenue that should stay in California leave California.”
And on the International front it appears that a number of countries and regions are relaxing their online poke rules, as they seek ways to control the industry and earn revenue from same, without banning it outright. The latest example is Quebec! Quebec has taken the first step towards a regulated online poker industry; there is no stopping other Canadian provinces who will also be seeking a slice of the potential millions to be had out of the industry. The thought that Quebec will benefit from the $50 million pie all on its own must have been too much for Ontario Premier, to stomach and he hinted this week that his province may also be heading for changes to its current poker and gambling laws. Here’s an announcement that just came out today: The European nation
of Belgium will soon be permitting online gambling operators on their soil and granting licenses.
Well as you sit back and speculate about all these changes, go online a go to POKERHOST.com a online poker site that awaiting much needed changes, especially with the UIEGA and in the meantime would love to have you join them and their freeroll madness, and you will be very pleased with their excellent customer service and affiliate program from those that truly understand online poker players.
