Short answer: No, online poker with real money is not formally legal. Many users turn to crypto, VPNs and specific offshore platforms for online poker, but it comes with risks. The question Is Online Poker Legal in NY unfortunately has a negative answer this year.
In the bustling streets of New York, the poker buzz is more like a whisper waiting to turn into a roar. For years, the Big Apple and its fellow state residents have been on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment regarding online poker’s legalization.
Hope surged after some casino licenses were approved, with multi-billion dollars projects planned and approved for construction. But most still turn to underground card rooms and offshore platforms for their online poker needs.
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Risk
Many users turn to using VPNs for access to specific platforms, such as Global Poker and America’s Cardroom. They also turn to Cryptos or Cashapp for payments and withdrawals, but there’s always a lingering risk.
Users live and gamble in what is, at best, a legal loophole. But according to them, the payouts are well-worth the risk.
You’ll be the judge of that.
- By the way: If you’re looking to turn a few bucks into serious winnings through online poker, we have a must-know post covering tips, strategies and different approaches (on top of the basics) so don’t miss out on it!
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Beginning
The year is 2022 and something huge happened: retail sports betting was finally legal, and it was bigger than anyone could’ve expected. In a single year, New York raked in a whopping $709.2 million in taxes from sports betting alone.
Just imagine how much online poker could generate from taxes. After all, with sports betting now legal, it seems like legalizing poker, blackjack and other casino games seems like the next logical step.
Right?
Well, apparently not. Since 2013, lawmakers have been trying to hit the jackpot with online poker legislation. Despite a string of attempts (eleven, to be precise), success has been elusive. It’s always a back and forth, and it never ends in anything concrete for different reasons.
These discussions take years to crystalize. By then, legislators that proposed bills or projects are not even active anymore. They’ve either moved on to other positions, or lost their position to an opposing party.
Who’s Who in the Poker Room
The poker world’s heavy hitters – BetMGM, PokerStars, and WSOP – are eyeing New York like a prime piece of real estate. Just imagine, being able to freely bet from the comfort of your own home, or at a local casino where everything is as squeaky clean as it could be. Forget driving to Atlantic City to find an underground card game – just head over to the casino and have the night of your life with your friends!
With the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) in the mix, it’s not just about shuffling cards. They want to sink underground cardrooms a bit deeper (six-feet under, to be exact). They want to set the standard: clean, fair and square games that the average joe can enjoy.
The push for online poker in New York has other big players. Just think of the Rob Goldstein’s Sands project, with a $4-billion dollar behind their New York gambling center. They managed to get their casino licensed preliminarily approved, but two years have passed and nothing has moved forward.
Rob Goldstein, CEO of Sands, told investors that “they were very dissappointed” by New York. It’s a bureaucratic nightmare. The ground has turned to mud, and construction doesn’t even have a starting date.
In fact, next year (2025), they’ll revisit whether or not these three new Casino licenses should indeed go through.
So, what gives? What’s next?
Navigating the Online Poker Path in New York
The quest to legalize online poker in New York has been a rollercoaster, complete with twists, turns, and a few loops. Despite the ride, the prospect of online poker becoming a mainstay in the Empire State is more than just wishful thinking—it’s a possibility that’s gaining serious traction.
Many legislators are thinking about the taxes (big surprise there, right?). Illegal card games have always been a thing, with Atlantic City hosting some of the most prolific cardgames for underground poker players. So, why not admit that poker is here to stay, and gain some money off of it?
These games aren’t going anywhere. People will seek to gamble their hard earned money on poker tables, so the government might as well regulate the activity. It’ll add a level of safety that consumers will surely appreciate, and it’ll add revenue to the local government for even more ambitious projects.
Legislative Hustle: The Battle in the Bills
Imagine trying to fit a square peg in a round hole—that’s been the vibe with trying to pass online poker legislation in New York. With eleven attempts that didn’t quite hit the mark, the commitment to making online poker legal is clear, but the path is littered with obstacles.
The bill A1380 stepping into the spotlight in 2023 was like a fresh deck in the game. With proposals for a 15% tax rate and a hefty $10 million licensing fee for operators, it showed that New York isn’t playing small ball.
Things seem to be moving forward, but at a snail’s pace. Legislators generate hype around their proposals, and seem to have the votes to go through. Then, they reconvene a year later and decide it’s not time to have casinos in New York. It’s maddening.
The Casino Conundrum: Friend or Foe?
The thought of online poker often brings up worries about its impact on the brick-and-mortar casino world. There’s a fear that digital might dim the lights of the physical venues and throw a wrench in the works for the labor force.
Yet, the tune is changing to one where online and offline poker could sing in harmony. The idea is that online poker might not be the competition but a companion to land-based casinos, potentially enriching New York’s gaming landscape.
Casinos have still done well, even with their online counterparts thriving. If anything, it brings a whole new host of players that attend live events for glory and riches. Many argue that Draftkings has a symbiotic relationship with Casinos, while others argue that the industry’s lobby is responsible for this legislative nightmare.
Is there a conspiracy at hand? or garden variety inefficiency and ineptitude?
The Future: Beyond State Lines
A game-changer for New York’s online poker scene could be the entry into multi-state agreements like MSIGA (Multi State Internet Gaming Agreement). Think of it as joining a bigger poker table, where New York players get to bluff, raise, and call against a wider pool of opponents.
This could create the kind of momentum that would get legislators to stop taking days off, and actually work for the people of New York that wish to play poker with their hard-earned money.
A Winning Hand for New York
By joining forces with other states, New York wouldn’t just be playing a local game—it would be part of a national tournament. This could mean bigger prize pots, more players, and a slice of the action that could put New York on the map as a premier online poker destination.
This could force legislators to understand that poker and casino games in New York are happening, with or without them.
In the high-stakes game of legalizing online poker, New York is holding a hand that could yet prove to be a winner. With legislative efforts persisting and the potential for a digitally enhanced gaming ecosystem, the Empire State could well be on its way to becoming a poker powerhouse.
As for players and enthusiasts, it’s a waiting game, with hopes high for a future where the chips fall in their favor. But, unlike a decade ago, there’s a host of reasons to be hopeful about the future.
FAQs on Online Poker in NY
To further clarify the current status and future prospects of online poker in New York, here are some frequently asked questions:
Is online gambling legal in New York?
Yes, but currently limited to sports betting. Efforts to legalize online poker and casino games are ongoing.
When will real money online poker be legal in New York?
A new bill is expected in 2024, with hopes high for legalization in the near future. Casino licenses are being revisited in 2025, and with powerful players lobbying for them, it could be what New York poker players have been hoping for.
Is real money online casino gaming legal in NY?
No, but there is optimism that legislation will eventually pass, given the potential revenue and positive impact on the state’s economy.
What are the next steps for legalizing online poker betting in New York?
Continued legislative efforts and advocacy are crucial, as well as addressing concerns from stakeholders about the impact on the existing gambling industry.
The pathway to legalizing online poker in New York is filled with challenges and opportunities. As the state navigates these waters, the potential benefits of a regulated online poker industry — from revenue generation to enhancing the gaming landscape — remain a compelling argument for legalization.
Short answer: No, online poker with real money is not formally legal. Many users turn to crypto, VPNs and specific offshore platforms for online poker, but it comes with risks. The question Is Online Poker Legal in NY unfortunately has a negative answer this year.
In the bustling streets of New York, the poker buzz is more like a whisper waiting to turn into a roar. For years, the Big Apple and its fellow state residents have been on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment regarding online poker’s legalization.
Hope surged after some casino licenses were approved, with multi-billion dollars projects planned and approved for construction. But most still turn to underground card rooms and offshore platforms for their online poker needs.
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Risk
Many users turn to using VPNs for access to specific platforms, such as Global Poker and America’s Cardroom. They also turn to Cryptos or Cashapp for payments and withdrawals, but there’s always a lingering risk.
Users live and gamble in what is, at best, a legal loophole. But according to them, the payouts are well-worth the risk.
You’ll be the judge of that.
- By the way: If you’re looking to turn a few bucks into serious winnings through online poker, we have a must-know post covering tips, strategies and different approaches (on top of the basics) so don’t miss out on it!
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Beginning
The year is 2022 and something huge happened: retail sports betting was finally legal, and it was bigger than anyone could’ve expected. In a single year, New York raked in a whopping $709.2 million in taxes from sports betting alone.
Just imagine how much online poker could generate from taxes. After all, with sports betting now legal, it seems like legalizing poker, blackjack and other casino games seems like the next logical step.
Right?
Well, apparently not. Since 2013, lawmakers have been trying to hit the jackpot with online poker legislation. Despite a string of attempts (eleven, to be precise), success has been elusive. It’s always a back and forth, and it never ends in anything concrete for different reasons.
These discussions take years to crystalize. By then, legislators that proposed bills or projects are not even active anymore. They’ve either moved on to other positions, or lost their position to an opposing party.
Who’s Who in the Poker Room
The poker world’s heavy hitters – BetMGM, PokerStars, and WSOP – are eyeing New York like a prime piece of real estate. Just imagine, being able to freely bet from the comfort of your own home, or at a local casino where everything is as squeaky clean as it could be. Forget driving to Atlantic City to find an underground card game – just head over to the casino and have the night of your life with your friends!
With the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) in the mix, it’s not just about shuffling cards. They want to sink underground cardrooms a bit deeper (six-feet under, to be exact). They want to set the standard: clean, fair and square games that the average joe can enjoy.
The push for online poker in New York has other big players. Just think of the Rob Goldstein’s Sands project, with a $4-billion dollar behind their New York gambling center. They managed to get their casino licensed preliminarily approved, but two years have passed and nothing has moved forward.
Rob Goldstein, CEO of Sands, told investors that “they were very dissappointed” by New York. It’s a bureaucratic nightmare. The ground has turned to mud, and construction doesn’t even have a starting date.
In fact, next year (2025), they’ll revisit whether or not these three new Casino licenses should indeed go through.
So, what gives? What’s next?
Navigating the Online Poker Path in New York
The quest to legalize online poker in New York has been a rollercoaster, complete with twists, turns, and a few loops. Despite the ride, the prospect of online poker becoming a mainstay in the Empire State is more than just wishful thinking—it’s a possibility that’s gaining serious traction.
Many legislators are thinking about the taxes (big surprise there, right?). Illegal card games have always been a thing, with Atlantic City hosting some of the most prolific cardgames for underground poker players. So, why not admit that poker is here to stay, and gain some money off of it?
These games aren’t going anywhere. People will seek to gamble their hard earned money on poker tables, so the government might as well regulate the activity. It’ll add a level of safety that consumers will surely appreciate, and it’ll add revenue to the local government for even more ambitious projects.
Legislative Hustle: The Battle in the Bills
Imagine trying to fit a square peg in a round hole—that’s been the vibe with trying to pass online poker legislation in New York. With eleven attempts that didn’t quite hit the mark, the commitment to making online poker legal is clear, but the path is littered with obstacles.
The bill A1380 stepping into the spotlight in 2023 was like a fresh deck in the game. With proposals for a 15% tax rate and a hefty $10 million licensing fee for operators, it showed that New York isn’t playing small ball.
Things seem to be moving forward, but at a snail’s pace. Legislators generate hype around their proposals, and seem to have the votes to go through. Then, they reconvene a year later and decide it’s not time to have casinos in New York. It’s maddening.
The Casino Conundrum: Friend or Foe?
The thought of online poker often brings up worries about its impact on the brick-and-mortar casino world. There’s a fear that digital might dim the lights of the physical venues and throw a wrench in the works for the labor force.
Yet, the tune is changing to one where online and offline poker could sing in harmony. The idea is that online poker might not be the competition but a companion to land-based casinos, potentially enriching New York’s gaming landscape.
Casinos have still done well, even with their online counterparts thriving. If anything, it brings a whole new host of players that attend live events for glory and riches. Many argue that Draftkings has a symbiotic relationship with Casinos, while others argue that the industry’s lobby is responsible for this legislative nightmare.
Is there a conspiracy at hand? or garden variety inefficiency and ineptitude?
The Future: Beyond State Lines
A game-changer for New York’s online poker scene could be the entry into multi-state agreements like MSIGA (Multi State Internet Gaming Agreement). Think of it as joining a bigger poker table, where New York players get to bluff, raise, and call against a wider pool of opponents.
This could create the kind of momentum that would get legislators to stop taking days off, and actually work for the people of New York that wish to play poker with their hard-earned money.
A Winning Hand for New York
By joining forces with other states, New York wouldn’t just be playing a local game—it would be part of a national tournament. This could mean bigger prize pots, more players, and a slice of the action that could put New York on the map as a premier online poker destination.
This could force legislators to understand that poker and casino games in New York are happening, with or without them.
In the high-stakes game of legalizing online poker, New York is holding a hand that could yet prove to be a winner. With legislative efforts persisting and the potential for a digitally enhanced gaming ecosystem, the Empire State could well be on its way to becoming a poker powerhouse.
As for players and enthusiasts, it’s a waiting game, with hopes high for a future where the chips fall in their favor. But, unlike a decade ago, there’s a host of reasons to be hopeful about the future.
FAQs on Online Poker in NY
To further clarify the current status and future prospects of online poker in New York, here are some frequently asked questions:
Is online gambling legal in New York?
Yes, but currently limited to sports betting. Efforts to legalize online poker and casino games are ongoing.
When will real money online poker be legal in New York?
A new bill is expected in 2024, with hopes high for legalization in the near future. Casino licenses are being revisited in 2025, and with powerful players lobbying for them, it could be what New York poker players have been hoping for.
Is real money online casino gaming legal in NY?
No, but there is optimism that legislation will eventually pass, given the potential revenue and positive impact on the state’s economy.
What are the next steps for legalizing online poker betting in New York?
Continued legislative efforts and advocacy are crucial, as well as addressing concerns from stakeholders about the impact on the existing gambling industry.
The pathway to legalizing online poker in New York is filled with challenges and opportunities. As the state navigates these waters, the potential benefits of a regulated online poker industry — from revenue generation to enhancing the gaming landscape — remain a compelling argument for legalization.
Related Posts
Short answer: No, online poker with real money is not formally legal. Many users turn to crypto, VPNs and specific offshore platforms for online poker, but it comes with risks. The question Is Online Poker Legal in NY unfortunately has a negative answer this year.
In the bustling streets of New York, the poker buzz is more like a whisper waiting to turn into a roar. For years, the Big Apple and its fellow state residents have been on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment regarding online poker’s legalization.
Hope surged after some casino licenses were approved, with multi-billion dollars projects planned and approved for construction. But most still turn to underground card rooms and offshore platforms for their online poker needs.
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Risk
Many users turn to using VPNs for access to specific platforms, such as Global Poker and America’s Cardroom. They also turn to Cryptos or Cashapp for payments and withdrawals, but there’s always a lingering risk.
Users live and gamble in what is, at best, a legal loophole. But according to them, the payouts are well-worth the risk.
You’ll be the judge of that.
- By the way: If you’re looking to turn a few bucks into serious winnings through online poker, we have a must-know post covering tips, strategies and different approaches (on top of the basics) so don’t miss out on it!
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Beginning
The year is 2022 and something huge happened: retail sports betting was finally legal, and it was bigger than anyone could’ve expected. In a single year, New York raked in a whopping $709.2 million in taxes from sports betting alone.
Just imagine how much online poker could generate from taxes. After all, with sports betting now legal, it seems like legalizing poker, blackjack and other casino games seems like the next logical step.
Right?
Well, apparently not. Since 2013, lawmakers have been trying to hit the jackpot with online poker legislation. Despite a string of attempts (eleven, to be precise), success has been elusive. It’s always a back and forth, and it never ends in anything concrete for different reasons.
These discussions take years to crystalize. By then, legislators that proposed bills or projects are not even active anymore. They’ve either moved on to other positions, or lost their position to an opposing party.
Who’s Who in the Poker Room
The poker world’s heavy hitters – BetMGM, PokerStars, and WSOP – are eyeing New York like a prime piece of real estate. Just imagine, being able to freely bet from the comfort of your own home, or at a local casino where everything is as squeaky clean as it could be. Forget driving to Atlantic City to find an underground card game – just head over to the casino and have the night of your life with your friends!
With the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) in the mix, it’s not just about shuffling cards. They want to sink underground cardrooms a bit deeper (six-feet under, to be exact). They want to set the standard: clean, fair and square games that the average joe can enjoy.
The push for online poker in New York has other big players. Just think of the Rob Goldstein’s Sands project, with a $4-billion dollar behind their New York gambling center. They managed to get their casino licensed preliminarily approved, but two years have passed and nothing has moved forward.
Rob Goldstein, CEO of Sands, told investors that “they were very dissappointed” by New York. It’s a bureaucratic nightmare. The ground has turned to mud, and construction doesn’t even have a starting date.
In fact, next year (2025), they’ll revisit whether or not these three new Casino licenses should indeed go through.
So, what gives? What’s next?
Navigating the Online Poker Path in New York
The quest to legalize online poker in New York has been a rollercoaster, complete with twists, turns, and a few loops. Despite the ride, the prospect of online poker becoming a mainstay in the Empire State is more than just wishful thinking—it’s a possibility that’s gaining serious traction.
Many legislators are thinking about the taxes (big surprise there, right?). Illegal card games have always been a thing, with Atlantic City hosting some of the most prolific cardgames for underground poker players. So, why not admit that poker is here to stay, and gain some money off of it?
These games aren’t going anywhere. People will seek to gamble their hard earned money on poker tables, so the government might as well regulate the activity. It’ll add a level of safety that consumers will surely appreciate, and it’ll add revenue to the local government for even more ambitious projects.
Legislative Hustle: The Battle in the Bills
Imagine trying to fit a square peg in a round hole—that’s been the vibe with trying to pass online poker legislation in New York. With eleven attempts that didn’t quite hit the mark, the commitment to making online poker legal is clear, but the path is littered with obstacles.
The bill A1380 stepping into the spotlight in 2023 was like a fresh deck in the game. With proposals for a 15% tax rate and a hefty $10 million licensing fee for operators, it showed that New York isn’t playing small ball.
Things seem to be moving forward, but at a snail’s pace. Legislators generate hype around their proposals, and seem to have the votes to go through. Then, they reconvene a year later and decide it’s not time to have casinos in New York. It’s maddening.
The Casino Conundrum: Friend or Foe?
The thought of online poker often brings up worries about its impact on the brick-and-mortar casino world. There’s a fear that digital might dim the lights of the physical venues and throw a wrench in the works for the labor force.
Yet, the tune is changing to one where online and offline poker could sing in harmony. The idea is that online poker might not be the competition but a companion to land-based casinos, potentially enriching New York’s gaming landscape.
Casinos have still done well, even with their online counterparts thriving. If anything, it brings a whole new host of players that attend live events for glory and riches. Many argue that Draftkings has a symbiotic relationship with Casinos, while others argue that the industry’s lobby is responsible for this legislative nightmare.
Is there a conspiracy at hand? or garden variety inefficiency and ineptitude?
The Future: Beyond State Lines
A game-changer for New York’s online poker scene could be the entry into multi-state agreements like MSIGA (Multi State Internet Gaming Agreement). Think of it as joining a bigger poker table, where New York players get to bluff, raise, and call against a wider pool of opponents.
This could create the kind of momentum that would get legislators to stop taking days off, and actually work for the people of New York that wish to play poker with their hard-earned money.
A Winning Hand for New York
By joining forces with other states, New York wouldn’t just be playing a local game—it would be part of a national tournament. This could mean bigger prize pots, more players, and a slice of the action that could put New York on the map as a premier online poker destination.
This could force legislators to understand that poker and casino games in New York are happening, with or without them.
In the high-stakes game of legalizing online poker, New York is holding a hand that could yet prove to be a winner. With legislative efforts persisting and the potential for a digitally enhanced gaming ecosystem, the Empire State could well be on its way to becoming a poker powerhouse.
As for players and enthusiasts, it’s a waiting game, with hopes high for a future where the chips fall in their favor. But, unlike a decade ago, there’s a host of reasons to be hopeful about the future.
FAQs on Online Poker in NY
To further clarify the current status and future prospects of online poker in New York, here are some frequently asked questions:
Is online gambling legal in New York?
Yes, but currently limited to sports betting. Efforts to legalize online poker and casino games are ongoing.
When will real money online poker be legal in New York?
A new bill is expected in 2024, with hopes high for legalization in the near future. Casino licenses are being revisited in 2025, and with powerful players lobbying for them, it could be what New York poker players have been hoping for.
Is real money online casino gaming legal in NY?
No, but there is optimism that legislation will eventually pass, given the potential revenue and positive impact on the state’s economy.
What are the next steps for legalizing online poker betting in New York?
Continued legislative efforts and advocacy are crucial, as well as addressing concerns from stakeholders about the impact on the existing gambling industry.
The pathway to legalizing online poker in New York is filled with challenges and opportunities. As the state navigates these waters, the potential benefits of a regulated online poker industry — from revenue generation to enhancing the gaming landscape — remain a compelling argument for legalization.
Short answer: No, online poker with real money is not formally legal. Many users turn to crypto, VPNs and specific offshore platforms for online poker, but it comes with risks. The question Is Online Poker Legal in NY unfortunately has a negative answer this year.
In the bustling streets of New York, the poker buzz is more like a whisper waiting to turn into a roar. For years, the Big Apple and its fellow state residents have been on a roller coaster of hope and disappointment regarding online poker’s legalization.
Hope surged after some casino licenses were approved, with multi-billion dollars projects planned and approved for construction. But most still turn to underground card rooms and offshore platforms for their online poker needs.
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Risk
Many users turn to using VPNs for access to specific platforms, such as Global Poker and America’s Cardroom. They also turn to Cryptos or Cashapp for payments and withdrawals, but there’s always a lingering risk.
Users live and gamble in what is, at best, a legal loophole. But according to them, the payouts are well-worth the risk.
You’ll be the judge of that.
- By the way: If you’re looking to turn a few bucks into serious winnings through online poker, we have a must-know post covering tips, strategies and different approaches (on top of the basics) so don’t miss out on it!
Is Online Poker Legal in NY: The Beginning
The year is 2022 and something huge happened: retail sports betting was finally legal, and it was bigger than anyone could’ve expected. In a single year, New York raked in a whopping $709.2 million in taxes from sports betting alone.
Just imagine how much online poker could generate from taxes. After all, with sports betting now legal, it seems like legalizing poker, blackjack and other casino games seems like the next logical step.
Right?
Well, apparently not. Since 2013, lawmakers have been trying to hit the jackpot with online poker legislation. Despite a string of attempts (eleven, to be precise), success has been elusive. It’s always a back and forth, and it never ends in anything concrete for different reasons.
These discussions take years to crystalize. By then, legislators that proposed bills or projects are not even active anymore. They’ve either moved on to other positions, or lost their position to an opposing party.
Who’s Who in the Poker Room
The poker world’s heavy hitters – BetMGM, PokerStars, and WSOP – are eyeing New York like a prime piece of real estate. Just imagine, being able to freely bet from the comfort of your own home, or at a local casino where everything is as squeaky clean as it could be. Forget driving to Atlantic City to find an underground card game – just head over to the casino and have the night of your life with your friends!
With the New York State Gaming Commission (NYSGC) in the mix, it’s not just about shuffling cards. They want to sink underground cardrooms a bit deeper (six-feet under, to be exact). They want to set the standard: clean, fair and square games that the average joe can enjoy.
The push for online poker in New York has other big players. Just think of the Rob Goldstein’s Sands project, with a $4-billion dollar behind their New York gambling center. They managed to get their casino licensed preliminarily approved, but two years have passed and nothing has moved forward.
Rob Goldstein, CEO of Sands, told investors that “they were very dissappointed” by New York. It’s a bureaucratic nightmare. The ground has turned to mud, and construction doesn’t even have a starting date.
In fact, next year (2025), they’ll revisit whether or not these three new Casino licenses should indeed go through.
So, what gives? What’s next?
Navigating the Online Poker Path in New York
The quest to legalize online poker in New York has been a rollercoaster, complete with twists, turns, and a few loops. Despite the ride, the prospect of online poker becoming a mainstay in the Empire State is more than just wishful thinking—it’s a possibility that’s gaining serious traction.
Many legislators are thinking about the taxes (big surprise there, right?). Illegal card games have always been a thing, with Atlantic City hosting some of the most prolific cardgames for underground poker players. So, why not admit that poker is here to stay, and gain some money off of it?
These games aren’t going anywhere. People will seek to gamble their hard earned money on poker tables, so the government might as well regulate the activity. It’ll add a level of safety that consumers will surely appreciate, and it’ll add revenue to the local government for even more ambitious projects.
Legislative Hustle: The Battle in the Bills
Imagine trying to fit a square peg in a round hole—that’s been the vibe with trying to pass online poker legislation in New York. With eleven attempts that didn’t quite hit the mark, the commitment to making online poker legal is clear, but the path is littered with obstacles.
The bill A1380 stepping into the spotlight in 2023 was like a fresh deck in the game. With proposals for a 15% tax rate and a hefty $10 million licensing fee for operators, it showed that New York isn’t playing small ball.
Things seem to be moving forward, but at a snail’s pace. Legislators generate hype around their proposals, and seem to have the votes to go through. Then, they reconvene a year later and decide it’s not time to have casinos in New York. It’s maddening.
The Casino Conundrum: Friend or Foe?
The thought of online poker often brings up worries about its impact on the brick-and-mortar casino world. There’s a fear that digital might dim the lights of the physical venues and throw a wrench in the works for the labor force.
Yet, the tune is changing to one where online and offline poker could sing in harmony. The idea is that online poker might not be the competition but a companion to land-based casinos, potentially enriching New York’s gaming landscape.
Casinos have still done well, even with their online counterparts thriving. If anything, it brings a whole new host of players that attend live events for glory and riches. Many argue that Draftkings has a symbiotic relationship with Casinos, while others argue that the industry’s lobby is responsible for this legislative nightmare.
Is there a conspiracy at hand? or garden variety inefficiency and ineptitude?
The Future: Beyond State Lines
A game-changer for New York’s online poker scene could be the entry into multi-state agreements like MSIGA (Multi State Internet Gaming Agreement). Think of it as joining a bigger poker table, where New York players get to bluff, raise, and call against a wider pool of opponents.
This could create the kind of momentum that would get legislators to stop taking days off, and actually work for the people of New York that wish to play poker with their hard-earned money.
A Winning Hand for New York
By joining forces with other states, New York wouldn’t just be playing a local game—it would be part of a national tournament. This could mean bigger prize pots, more players, and a slice of the action that could put New York on the map as a premier online poker destination.
This could force legislators to understand that poker and casino games in New York are happening, with or without them.
In the high-stakes game of legalizing online poker, New York is holding a hand that could yet prove to be a winner. With legislative efforts persisting and the potential for a digitally enhanced gaming ecosystem, the Empire State could well be on its way to becoming a poker powerhouse.
As for players and enthusiasts, it’s a waiting game, with hopes high for a future where the chips fall in their favor. But, unlike a decade ago, there’s a host of reasons to be hopeful about the future.
FAQs on Online Poker in NY
To further clarify the current status and future prospects of online poker in New York, here are some frequently asked questions:
Is online gambling legal in New York?
Yes, but currently limited to sports betting. Efforts to legalize online poker and casino games are ongoing.
When will real money online poker be legal in New York?
A new bill is expected in 2024, with hopes high for legalization in the near future. Casino licenses are being revisited in 2025, and with powerful players lobbying for them, it could be what New York poker players have been hoping for.
Is real money online casino gaming legal in NY?
No, but there is optimism that legislation will eventually pass, given the potential revenue and positive impact on the state’s economy.
What are the next steps for legalizing online poker betting in New York?
Continued legislative efforts and advocacy are crucial, as well as addressing concerns from stakeholders about the impact on the existing gambling industry.
The pathway to legalizing online poker in New York is filled with challenges and opportunities. As the state navigates these waters, the potential benefits of a regulated online poker industry — from revenue generation to enhancing the gaming landscape — remain a compelling argument for legalization.
