Intrastate Internet poker might not be regulated by the state of California anytime soon, as proponents couldn't come to agreement about licensing requirements.

With supporters far outweighing opponents, the bill regulating California intrastate online gambling seemed a lock to pass. But, with varying interests unable to supply a single viable plan, the proposal to permit instate online poker operators did not receive a vote in committee, and can probably be left off this year's agenda.

California lawmakers are desperate for revenue to prop up the state's budget, and taxing online poker seems an option that would raise almost one billion dollars annually. But tribal leaders and card room operators already licensed within the state balked at allowing a possibility of outdoor competition, although they'd supported Internet poker under their control.

State Senator Roderick Wright, who had proposed the bill which might let California residents gamble online with operators licensed inside state boundaries, withdrew the measure, saying it still needed work. He opined it will probably be past the tip of the year before the bill would again be brought forward.

Leaders from the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the tribe that initiated discussions of intrastate Internet poker, objected to the wording of the bill, which they felt left open the likelihood that Las Vegas gaming companies and foreign online casino operators could claim a license to serve California.

The Poker Players Alliance took the opposing point, wanting such established online poker operators as Full Tilt and PokerStars to have the correct to bid for licensing. PPA spokesmen also denounced a clause that will make gambling with unlicensed online casinos a crime.

Until a consensus a number of the involved parties may also be reached, apparently California can be stalled in its try to avoid the UIGEA and establish intrastate Internet poker operations.

Published on June 30, 2010 by MattMiller

Read More... [Source: California Gambling News]