For months there has been speculation as to if PokerStars was being pushed out of the state of California when it comes to the potential for online poker. Stories has circulated that interested parties did not want PokerStars involved and looked for a ‘bad actor’ clause to be added to legislation. This would essentially lead to PokerStars not being to gain a licensed due to operating after the UIGEA was passed. However, the poker room is fighting for ground and a press release was sent out yesterday that confirms PokerStars is working with several groups in the state, preparing for intrastate online poker.
According to the press release, which was posted at the OnlinePokerReport website, the Rational Group, the owner and operator of PokerStars has come to an agreement with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, The Commerce Club, the Bicycle Casino and the Hawaiian Gardens Casino. The agreement will see the groups working together once the state passes legislation for online poker.
According to the agreement, PokerStars will be serving as the subcontractor and will provide the platform for online poker as well as related services for the sites created by the Tribe or the card clubs. Essentially, players in the state would be able to enjoy the services of the largest online poker room in the world via the websites created by the Tribe or card clubs.
The groups will also come together to advocate for legislation in the state to see their agreement come to life. This not only includes state regulation but also intrastate online poker. Robert Martin, the Tribal Chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, stated in the press release:
“We’re pleased to announce our agreement with these established and proven organizations that reprsetn millions of California poker players. We’re confident that, together, we can offer a safe, secure, high-quality online poker experience that brings financial benefits to California while providing the highest level of accountability, choice, service and protection for consumers.”
The announcement of the agreement comes just one day after a hearing was held in the state on the subject of online poker. Martin spoke out during the meeting, focusing on the ‘bad actor’ clauses and how they would put a limit on who would be able to participate in the online poker market for the state.
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