Assemblyman Mike Gatto has announced the first set of proposed amendments to his California online poker bill.
As reported by iGaming Business in December, Gatto introduced the bill in an effort to legalise online poker in the US state.
The AB 9 legislation was designed to create a framework for the state’s online poker industry, covering all participants in the process.
The amendment most notably addresses the in-person sign-up requirement of the original version, under which players needed to visit a land-based gambling facility in order to open an online poker account.
However, this in-person requirement has now been made optional for players.
“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,” Gatto said.
“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.”
Gatto is also considering raising the sanctions against operators of unauthorised online poker services.
Any amendments will appear in print after the bill has been referred to the first committee for a hearing.
“California has led the world in computer and Internet innovation, including online security and screening, and there is no reason why we can’t lead with a sensible online-poker framework,” Gatto said.
“These amendments are derived from time-tested business practices that have received significant support from stakeholders.
“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.
“I pride myself in listening; I expect this process will continue throughout the year.”
source : www.igamingbusiness.com
