In a landmark decision, the New York State Senate has passed a bill declaring online poker to be a game of skill rather than chance. The bill, known as S.5302-B, was introduced by Senator Joe Addabbo Jr. and passed with an overwhelming majority vote of 53-9.
This bill marks a significant shift in the state’s stance on online poker, which has traditionally been classified as a form of gambling. By declaring it a game of skill, the state is essentially legitimizing online poker and opening the door for regulated online poker sites to operate in New York.
Senator Addabbo Jr. has been a vocal advocate for legalizing online poker in the state, arguing that it is a game of skill that requires strategy and decision-making, rather than relying solely on luck. He has been working tirelessly to educate his fellow lawmakers on the nuances of online poker and the skill involved in playing the game.
Supporters of the bill argue that regulating online poker will provide much-needed consumer protections for players, as well as generate significant revenue for the state through licensing fees and taxes. They also point to the success of other states, such as New Jersey and Nevada, which have already legalized online poker with great success.
Opponents of the bill have raised concerns about potential addiction and problem gambling issues, as well as the impact that online poker could have on brick and mortar casinos in the state. However, supporters argue that regulating online poker will actually help to combat these issues by providing a safe and controlled environment for players to participate in the game.
The bill will now move to the New York State Assembly for further consideration. If it passes in the Assembly, it will then be sent to Governor Kathy Hochul for final approval. Governor Hochul has not yet indicated her stance on the issue, but supporters are hopeful that she will support the bill and help to bring online poker to the state.
Overall, the passage of this bill is a significant milestone in the long-running debate over the legality of online poker in New York. With the state Senate’s stamp of approval, online poker enthusiasts and industry stakeholders are hopeful that this could be the first step towards a fully regulated and thriving online poker market in the Empire State.
