New York online poker hearing to “set the stage” for 2016

Poker Players Alliance director John Papas says this week’s hearing on SB 5302 will lay the foundation for success next year 

 The hearing on New York online poker bill SB 5302 later this week will “set the stage” for the state legalizing and regulating the activity in 2016, the director of the Poker Players Alliance John Pappas has told eGR North America. [private]

The hearing will take place on Wednesday at 1pm in front of the New York Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, and will discuss online poker bill SB 5302 as well as the future of online poker in the state in general.

SB 5302 was tabled by Committee chairman Senator John Bonacic for the second time of asking back in May, but has so far failed to gain much traction.

“While the bill has not gained significant momentum in the legislature this year, we are encouraged by the fact that the Senator and other members of the Committee have a strong commitment to making this happen,” Pappas told eGR NA.

“Overall the hearing will be more of an informative discussion. Realistically, 2016 would be the year. This hearing is just helping to set the stage,” he added.

Papas believes SB 5302 is the “right approach” and offers the best vehicle for the state to drive real-money online poker legislation across the line next year.

“It permits up to ten Internet poker licenses, allows interstate gaming agreements, and leaves the decision of operator suitability to the regulator,” Pappas said.

“This is good for competition, player liquidity, and ultimately raising revenue for the state without raising taxes. Most importantly, it would properly protect players online,” he added.