PokerStars Welcomes Governor Christie’s Conditional Veto
PokerStars has accepted Governor Chris Christie’s conditions to pass the New Jersey online gaming bill. The governor had issued his statement regarding the bill on Feb 7, Thursday, which was the deadline given to him to take action on the bill.
The leading online poker gaming operator issued a statement to Pokerfuse, in which it expressed hopes that New Jersey would “…work quickly to finalize the legislation in accordance with the important revisions and additions to this bill set out in the Governor’s statement.”
On Feb 7, Thursday, the governor finally announced his decision regarding the online gambling bill. He issued a conditional veto, but expressed willingness to pass an online gambling bill amended as per his suggestions.
PokerStars, which is currently making attempts to expand into the land gaming sector, confirmed that it has gotten into an acquisition deal with the struggling Atlantic Club Casino Hotel located in New Jersey, but the agreement is “still subject to completion.” The operator stated, “[PokerStars looks] forward to working with the relevant parties, including the NJ Division of Gambling Enforcement to finalize that process.” Reportedly, PokerStars is waiting for a provisional license before completing its acquisition deal.
PokerStars also stated: “We have consistently said that this bill will drive economic development and job creation in New Jersey and are committed to play our part in that process.”
Previously, the online poker company had pointed out that its purchase of Atlantic Club Casino Hotel could generate as many as 2000 jobs for the people of New Jersey. The company said, “The distinctive environment that I-Gaming can create for New Jersey is unprecedented and we are pleased that Governor Christie sees the significant benefits of mixing online and offline gaming.”
In conclusion, PokerStars said, “The most important thing, though, is that all parties work collaboratively to bring this bill back for signature quickly so that Atlantic City and New Jersey can begin to benefit from this proven global model for successful gaming.”
Lawmakers in New Jersey, who are eager to legalize online gambling in the state, and least likely to object to Governor Christie’s conditions. The governor had stated, “I have concluded that now is the time for our state to move forward, again leading the way for the nation, by becoming one of the first states to permit Internet gaming.”
Christie has suggested that the tax rate imposed on operators should be raised to 15 percent from 10 ten percent, more funds for the prevention of problem gambling, and a validity period of 10 years, among others. The bill now returns to New Jersey legislators, and once passed, will be returned to Christie. When the governor approves the bill, it will become law.
Last year, the governor had vetoed a similar bill, but then the US Department of Justice (DoJ) had not stated that the Wire Act no longer applies to online poker and online casino gaming at that time. New Jersey senators continued advocating the bill, and the governor has finally expressed his support for the same.
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