Online Poker Gambling Push In California Done Until 2010

California has been out in front of other states when it comes to casino gambling expansion. Many believed that the state could also lead the charge into legalized online poker. If that occurs, it will not be until next year.

A spokesman for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians confirmed late this week that the best approach may be to take some time to straighten out their proposal before they continue to pursue legalized Internet poker in California. It is a move that, when finally completed, could change the future of online gambling in the US, which is why it may take longer than expected.

"The best option is to regroup and get it done in January," said spokesman Patrick Dorinson. While that may be the plan of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, other tribes are balking at the idea of joining together in the fight with card rooms in California.

"We don't think card rooms have any place at the table in discussion of this concept," said David Quintana, Political Director of the California Tribal Business Alliance. The group is concerned that any partnership with the card rooms on this issue would place in jeopardy tribal casinos' exclusive rights to gambling.

Lawmakers are not necessarily opposed to legalized online poker. Their main concern is to ensure that the state of California would receive enough of the revenue to make it worth changing laws. The initial prognostication is that the idea of legalized Internet poker is receiving strong support among legislators.

One thing that none of the groups involved wants is a sloppy Bill. That is why it will be put on the back-burner until the January 2010 session. It will allow lawmakers and the lobbying groups to collect information that may be pertinent to any online gambling Bill passing.

September 12, 2009
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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