‘Bad Actor’ Clause Might Get Dumped When California Renews Online Poker Efforts

Written by:
Ace King
Published on:
Aug/29/2014
‘Bad Actor’ Clause Might Get Dumped When California Renews Online Poker Efforts

The so-called “bad actor” clause that deters California from permitting online poker rooms that have previously ventured into the US market could be erased from future Web poker legislation in that state, according to a report in iGaming Business.

Part of the fuss surrounds PokerStars efforts to re-enter the US market via California.  It has teamed up with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians and their inclusion is supported by some of the state’s largest land-based casinos, including The Bike and the Commerce.  All other Tribal operators balked at the idea, however, and once again online poker legislation was dead on arrival in California for 2014.

Internet poker bills introduced by California Assemblyman Reginald Jones-Sawyer and Senator Joe Correa have to be re-written for the new legislative period in 2015.  California's legislative year ends in August.

“We must make sure that any ‘Bad Actor Language’ is written so that it is applied fairly, and avoids any possible future legal challenges,” Jones-Sawyer said, according to the OnlinePoker.net news website.

“It is my hope that during the next few months we can continue the dialogue with all the interested principals so that there is a clear consensus and mutual agreement as to who will be able to participate in providing internet poker to our citizens.

“We have come a long way. But we have to be patient, so we can get this right. Setting a standard in California that will be an example for the entire nation is my ultimate goal.”

- Ace King, Gambling911.com

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