If the federal Government is not going to legalize online gambling most US states will. Internet gambling could yield enormous revenue and produce much needed jobs since the United States of America is currently gripped a recession. That’s why the state of Illinois aims to be the first state in the US to legalize and regulate internet poker. Senate President John Cullerton proposed a bill earlier this month (May 2012).
The latest press release states that lawmakers made a third amendment to House Bill 4148. It makes provision for an an intrastate online poker platform that will be controlled by the state lottery but licensed out to state land-based casinos and racetracks which includes a hefty licensing fee of $5 million.
Law officials reckon that if properly regulated online poker can yield as much as $105 million in licensing revenues, the state will share this amount with its licensees. The issue of problem and under age gambling has been discussed a lot lately and how to curb it. The good news is that the state will play an active role in outlining the requirements and licensing operators, it will also help ensure responsibility for player financial transactions.
The business plan makes provision for an intrastate legislative program but would have the capability of permitting inter-state deals with other states that are compatible. Should online gambling be legalized in the state of Illinois third party technology providers must include geo-location and ID verification in their packages and must adhere to stringent requirements.
