While the US Government debates whether to end 'prohibition' and allow internet gambling, the state of Nevada is one step ahead.
On Wednesday the Nevada Gaming Control Board released a proposal that would enable the state to regulate internet poker – if the federal government legalises it.
The Nevada proposals cover the licensing procedure, technology and financial accountability as well as the methods by which players could be enrolled.
Mark Lipparelli, chairman of the board, said that the proposals are in response to moves by the state legislature and by Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval, both of which approved Assembly Bill 258, which requested the establishment of internet poker regulations.
Said Lipparelli: “Internet poker has become a multi-billion dollar business around the world. The technology supporting it is not perfect, but has improved dramatically since it was introduced. Nevada will establish high standards, giving players as much confidence as possible in the entities and technologies that might eventually gain approval.”
The proposals are now available for amendment by the public processes in Nevada, mostly through public hearings and ‘workshops’.
The US’ most active supporter of internet poker, Senator Harry Reid of Nevada, has already attempted to push through a bill legalising internet poker. He has gone on record as saying that it would probably not happen before the 2012 elections.
