(Washington Insider Magazine) —Is poker illegal in New York? Are you a poker enthusiast residing in New York, eager to experience the thrill of online poker and perhaps even make some real money? Unfortunately, your aspirations might be put on hold. While New York has been progressively expanding its gambling landscape, online poker has yet to find its place. This article discusses the legal status of online poker in New York, its historical backdrop, potential future developments, and the path to legalization.
Is Poker Illegal In New York
New York boasts a rich history of underground poker card rooms where some of the world’s most skilled players honed their craft. However, when it comes to online poker, the options for New York gamblers are currently limited. They can cross the border into neighboring states like New Jersey or Pennsylvania to access online poker platforms. Alternatively, they can participate in sweepstakes poker games available on platforms like Global Poker. These platforms operate under a unique model involving the purchase of Gold Coins for playing and the possibility of winning sweep coins that can be redeemed for cash or other prizes.
Land-Based Poker Options
Thankfully, New York’s gambling scene has expanded in recent years, with the emergence of several commercial casinos offering comprehensive poker experiences, including cash games and tournaments. Moreover, tribal casinos in the state also offer opportunities for poker enthusiasts. Despite these developments, New York has yet to embrace online casino games as of early 2021.
The Quest for Legalization
The absence of legal online poker in New York is not due to a lack of effort. Lawmakers have been working to pass an online gambling bill since 2013, when the green light was given for commercial casinos and card rooms. However, progress has been slow, and no online poker legislation has successfully made its way through the state legislature.
Recent developments in the gambling landscape of New York, including the approval of mobile and online sports betting, could potentially pave the way for online poker’s legalization. The hopes for this lie with Bill S00018, a crucial proposal that aims to classify poker as a game of skill. Such a designation could have significant implications and might open the door for the launch of online poker platforms within the state.
Key Aspects of Bill S00018
Senator Joseph Addabbo’s bill, Bill S00018, outlines important provisions that could shape the future of online poker in New York:
- Licenses: The bill proposes the issuance of up to 11 online poker licenses in New York
- Regulation: Online poker sites would be regulated by the New York State Gaming Commission, ensuring a secure and fair gaming environment
- Skins: The bill allows unlimited “skins” (different online platforms) under each license
- Age Restriction: Participation would be limited to individuals aged 21 or older.
- Inclusion of Tribal Casinos: Tribal casinos and video lottery facilities would be eligible to apply for licenses, fostering a diverse gambling landscape
- Licensing Fee: A significant upfront fee of $10 million for a 10-year license is proposed
- Taxation: A 15% tax on Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) would contribute to the state’s revenue
The Road Ahead
If online poker becomes legal in New York, the process to set up operational services could take time. Similar to the experience in New Jersey, companies interested in offering online poker would need to secure licenses from the New York State Gaming Commission. Additionally, partnerships with existing land-based casinos might be necessary.
Rigorous background checks and software audits would be conducted to ensure the integrity of the platforms.
Considering New Jersey’s example, where it took nearly a year from the passing of the gambling bill for the first legal online poker site to launch, a similar timeline could be expected for the debut of New York’s first online poker room.
Conclusion: Is Poker Illegal In New York
Currently, the prospects of legal online poker in New York hang in the balance, with lawmakers and poker enthusiasts hoping for positive developments. While the state has made strides in expanding its gambling offerings, the journey toward embracing online poker is still ongoing. With the potential passage of Bill S00018, poker enthusiasts might soon find themselves able to participate in legally sanctioned online poker games, ushering in a new era of gambling excitement in the Empire State.