California first set of amendments for the online poker bill

California’s Assemblyman Mike Gatto announced yesterday the first amendments for California’s online poker bill. Gatto has proposed in several occasions to make some modifications on California’s online gaming industry, as many other US states are already working on online share pools for the online poker rooms, like New Jersey and Nevada. California’s Assemblyman Mike Gatto, back in December of 2014, already introduced a bill to regulate the online poker market in the Golden State. However, the Assemblyman was only able to bring the AB 9 Legislation that allows California to create a legal framework for the online poker network within the state, although the in-person requirement continues to be something to work on as many online players find ridiculous that only land-based gambling establishments are the only ones allowed to open online poker accounts. The sanctioned online poker operators could have their penalties removed under this bill as Gatto has mentioned a few times already. Raising the penalties imposed to illegal online poker rooms could bring back the welfare of the online poker industry in California.

Mike Gatto, said: “After meeting with security experts and hearing from poker players and industry professionals, I have concluded that online poker would be best served by making in-person registration an option rather than a requirement. State of the art technology currently used by operators in other states when registering players accesses many of the same databases used by financial institutions to verify the identity of registrants and prevent fraud. My goal remains creating a sensible framework for a new California industry. That will involve a thoughtful process of consultation with all of the key stakeholders. California has led the world in computer and Internet innovation, including online security and screening, and there is no reason why we cannot lead with a sensible online-poker framework. These amendments are derived from time-tested business practices that have received significant support from stakeholders. I pride myself in listening; I expect this process will continue throughout the year.”