2010 was a break through year in terms of making poker as legitimate as trading stocks. However, as successful as 2010 was, no legislation’s were put in place and with the Republicans gains in November, it could be a tough year for poker.
However, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of one man; Sen. Majority Leader Harry Reid. Reid looks set to take control of the PPA (Poker Players Alliance) and be the eyes and ears for a push to legislate poker in 2011.
“I think it’s clear that Senator Reid will continue to be a major player on this issue,” PPA executive director John Pappas said. “Any time the Senate Majority Leader takes notice on an issue, we will need to continue working with his office. If his bill is leading the way, that means the House becomes kind of a secondary body for us to work in. I think for sure the Financial Services Committee no longer will be the leading body in this jurisdiction.”
Reids initial proposal of a 15 month blackout period for online poker rooms, did not go down well in the poker industry. Yet senior figures and players alike, realise it needs to happen for the good and longevity of the game.
2011 could be a crucial year for online poker, but one feels as though a lot rests on Senator Reid and how far he can push it. Fingers crossed.
