California's casinos are in favour of legalising online poker, arguing that a new bill put forward by State Senator Lou Correa will create new opportunities for land-based operators.
The California Gaming Association, which represents 75 per cent of licensed card rooms throughout the Golden State, has voiced its support for Senate Bill 40, which seeks to authorise online poker.
"Senate Bill 40 will help revitalise the state’s economy while protecting players," said Rob Ross, the CGA’s executive director. "This bill is an opportunity for licensed card clubs to participate in a new and rapidly evolving technology, should they elect to do so."
Unlike current federal legislative proposals, the bill aims to keep revenues generated by online poker in California and would not allow revenues to be lost to foreign-based online gaming sites.
According to Ross, SB 40 contains provisions that the association believes are key elements in establishing a safe and secure option for online poker in California. Strict regulation of operators, it said, will ensure that the two million Californians who play poker online each week will be protected from various forms of fraud and theft.
Senator Correa, who represents Orange County, welcomed the CGA’s support. "The growing support for this legislation shows that now is the time for California to engage by creating a legal and safe environment for our residents who play online poker while also generating new revenues and jobs for our state," he said.
California is currently struggling under the weight of a record $28bn deficit and an unemployment rate of 12 per cent.
