Online Poker Regulation Bill Passes Committee

Good News For U.S.A Players!

On Wednesday the House Financial Services Committee passed H.R. 2267, the Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection and Enforcement Act, by a vote of 41-22. According to the Poker Players Alliance, the bill would "establish a robust license and regulatory regime for online gaming in the United States, providing much needed oversight on this growing industry in order to protect customers, children and problem gamblers."

Despite this victory, the bill still faces hurdles as it must be passed by the House of Representatives, the Senate and then must be signed by the President of the United States this year to become law. If the bill does not pass this year, the entire process must start over, possibly with a less favorable political environment. Despite these key hurdles, the passage of this bill through committee represents the greatest legislative victory for USA poker players since the passage of the UIGEA in 2006 and provides great momentum going forward.