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23rd March, 2011 :: 09:24:12
Source: Casinos Online
New proposal could see significant tourism benefits for the state
The US state of Hawaii could be on the poker legalisation trail, according to a new bill just introduced to the Senate & labelled SB755. The bill justifies legalisation by highlighting the need for enhanced tourism & business attractions in the wake of the Japanese earthquake & tsunami, & is detailed at http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session2011/Bills/SB755_HD1_PROPOSED_.pdf.
In summary, it involves:
Report Title:
Gambling; Peer-to-Peer Gaming
Description:
Authorises peer-to-peer games of skill, including poker, in which each player receives the player's personal winnings from the game but in which no other person or entity derives any proceeds based on the outcome of the game.
Permits licensed venue to charge fee to participate in game or percentage of total wagers in game, or both.
Authorises issuance of not more than two five year licenses to operate infrastructure for online peer-to-peer games of skill for a minimum fee of $100 million per year, 20 percent of total wagers, & advertising for State.
Prohibits licensee from participating, directly or indirectly in games & prohibits participation by computer. Establishes Peer-to-Peer Gaming Commission effective July 1, 2012.
The Gaming Commission will fall under the Department of Economic Development & Tourism & will consist of a 7 member body serving five year terms, which will be supported by an executive director & appropriate staffing levels.
It has been proposed that the legislation be effected through an amendment to the Hawaii Revised Statutes as a Peer-to-Peer Gambling law.
Posts on the popular twoplustwo poker forum suggest that Full Tilt Poker has already expressed interest in moving part of its operations to the islands should the bill prove successful.
The first hearings on the bill will probably be before the Committee on Economic Revitalisation & Business chaired by Rep. Angus L.K. McKelvey, & the Committee on Judiciary chaired by Rep. Gilbert S.C. Keith-Agaran.on 23 March 2011. Testimony can be submitted here: http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/emailt...?measure=SB755
According to industry observers, the Hawaiian bill seeks to effect the following:
* Poker will be legally recognised as a game of skill
* Poker will be exempted from the Hawaii gambling statute
* Online poker will be legalised, & operators will be encouraged to set up businesson the islands.
* Large tournament operators such as the World Series of Poker, North Amercian Poker Tour & World Poker Tour will be encouraged to stage major events in Hawaii, assisting the development of tourism - especially out-of-season.
* A licensing framework & Gaming Commission will be established for operators.
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