New York Introduces Bill That Would Authorize Online Poker

Following an unsuccessful attempt last year, New York State Senator John J. Bonacic, Chairman of the Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, on May 13, 2015, introduced another bill that would authorize online poker within the State of New York. Bill S5302, which has been referred to the Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, would amend both the gaming and criminal laws and allow Internet gambling on poker to be offered to New York's 20 million residents.    

The newly proposed bill would allow for up to 10 licenses to be issued by the New York State Gaming Commission, each being issued for a 10-year period and having a one-time licensing fee of $10 million. If the bill is passed, the commission would have 180 days to promulgate regulations and an additional 180 days to issue licenses to applicants. Operators and significant vendors would both require licensing by the commission. Unlike the Internet gaming laws of Nevada and New Jersey, which limit operators