A09509 Introduced in New York State Assembly to Legalize Online Poker

New York State Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow (D-Mt. Vernon) on Thursday introduced A09509 that would legalize online poker in the Empire State.

This follows Republican State Sen. John Bonacic's introduction of S 6913 that would permit certain interactive poker games for real money in the state.

The Pretlow bill is described as “strikingly similar” to that of Bonacic’s by PokerNews.com.

A09509  seeks “to authorize the New York State Gaming Commission to license certain entities to offer for play to the public certain variants of internet poker which require a significant degree of skill, specifically ‘Omaha Hold’em’ and ‘Texas Hold’em.’”

Neighboring New Jersey has already legalized online gambling within its own borders with some degree of success.  Those living in New York can simply cross into New Jersey and set up a real money account.  There is no residency requirement in New Jersey, however, one must be within the state to play for real money.

Another neighboring state, Pennsylvania, hopes to introduce online gambling legislation shortly as well.

- Ace King, Gambling911.com