Washington, D.C., and Nevada have legalized Internet poker with other states expected to follow as cash-strapped states collectively facing a $32 billion budget gap in the next fiscal year look for revenue.

Gaming analysts believe that at least five states will make a push for legalized online poker this year. This trend could expand quickly as other states in desperate need of tax revenue seek to tap into new revenue sources.

Connecticut’s Governor Dannel P. Malloy says “It is quite clear that Internet gaming is coming to Connecticut. Period. It’s coming,” said Malloy. “We have a stake in protecting that industry.

In conjunction with the new licensing laws put into place in the state, the Wire Act finding makes it seem very likely that Nevada could become an online poker-friendly state by the end of 2012. Other states that have previously debated online poker legislation include California and New Jersey, and both are expected to revisit the debate again this year.

In the case of New Jersey, the state legislature actually previously passed a law that would have allowed for online poker in the state; however, the bill was vetoed by Governor Chris Christie due to concerns over whether such a move would be legal under federal law. That has all changed now thanks to the DOJ. On Monday, January 9, 2012, the New Jersey state Assembly approved a bill to allow Internet gambling for New Jersey residents through Atlantic City casinos.

Other major markets mentioned in the report were New York, where expanded land-based gambling has already been heavily pushed, Iowa, Florida and Illinois.

Interstate online gambling exchanges could also pass legal hurdles. Some lottery programs now allow players from several states to participate, including large jackpot games like Mega Millions and Powerball.

“We’re perhaps closer to federal legislation than we’ve ever been,” Fahrenkopf told reporters during a news conference. “There’s a buzz in Washington about the need for action.”

The Global Gaming Expo (G2E) continues to gin up expectations that America will finally take the plunge and legalize online poker this year. At a keynote address on Wednesday, MGM Resorts CEO Jim Murren said the time for talking about online poker was over and (wait for it) “the time for action is now.” Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nv) is expected to provide much of the momentum behind any new federal push.

Regardless of whether the Iowa Legislature authorizes Internet poker in the 2012 session, some Iowans are wagering and will continue to wager on online poker games, according to a new report.

About 5 percent of adults reported having gambled on the Internet and 2 percent have done so within the past 12 months, said researchers at the Center for Social and Behavioral Research at the University of Northern Iowa.

State Sen. Jeff Danielson, D-Cedar Falls, chairman of the Iowa Senate State Government Committee, said Tuesday he believes lawmakers have no choice but to seriously consider legalizing Internet poker.

“I believe the technology has gotten ahead of our laws, and if you want to avoid the downsides of some of the economic and social aspects, then you need a thoughtful approach,” Danielson said. “Right now there are billions of dollars leaking out of the U.S. economy and Iowa’s economy to far-away places where we have no idea what the money is being used for.”

There are 100 new members of Congress and the American Gaming Association says not everyone fully understands gaming. It’s why they unveiled an online poker code of conduct at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. They also formed a coalition and created a wild-west themed video explaining the history of gaming and how Nevada can reap the benefits of it being regulated.

“Americans have always played poker; 150 years ago they played in a risky, anything goes environment.” The American Gaming Association video talks about the swindlers and shady characters who dominated poker and the fact there were no safeguards to protect Americans.

Today, industry leaders say online gambling is popular and the U.S. is losing jobs and billions of dollars to foreign countries because of illegal, unregulated gambling. It’s estimated to generate $30 billion a year worldwide.

“We’re perhaps closer to federal legislation than we’ve ever been,” Fahrenkopf told reporters during a news conference. “There’s a buzz in Washington about the need for action.”

The Global Gaming Expo (G2E) continues to gin up expectations that America will finally take the plunge and legalize online poker this year. At a keynote address on Wednesday, MGM Resorts CEO Jim Murren said the time for talking about online poker was over and (wait for it) “the time for action is now.” Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nv) is expected to provide much of the momentum behind any new federal push.

Regardless of whether the Iowa Legislature authorizes Internet poker in the 2012 session, some Iowans are wagering and will continue to wager on online poker games, according to a new report.

About 5 percent of adults reported having gambled on the Internet and 2 percent have done so within the past 12 months, said researchers at the Center for Social and Behavioral Research at the University of Northern Iowa.

State Sen. Jeff Danielson, D-Cedar Falls, chairman of the Iowa Senate State Government Committee, said Tuesday he believes lawmakers have no choice but to seriously consider legalizing Internet poker.

“I believe the technology has gotten ahead of our laws, and if you want to avoid the downsides of some of the economic and social aspects, then you need a thoughtful approach,” Danielson said. “Right now there are billions of dollars leaking out of the U.S. economy and Iowa’s economy to far-away places where we have no idea what the money is being used for.”

There are 100 new members of Congress and the American Gaming Association says not everyone fully understands gaming. It’s why they unveiled an online poker code of conduct at the Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas. They also formed a coalition and created a wild-west themed video explaining the history of gaming and how Nevada can reap the benefits of it being regulated.

“Americans have always played poker; 150 years ago they played in a risky, anything goes environment.” The American Gaming Association video talks about the swindlers and shady characters who dominated poker and the fact there were no safeguards to protect Americans.

Today, industry leaders say online gambling is popular and the U.S. is losing jobs and billions of dollars to foreign countries because of illegal, unregulated gambling. It’s estimated to generate $30 billion a year worldwide.

The bill, a modified version of previous legislation, would put Nevada in the position to be able to license online gambling operators should the federal government allow regulated online poker or other gambling. The bill instructs regulators to draft rules for licensing in the event that such federal legislation is eventually passed.

“It highlights that there’s a need,” said Assemblyman William Horne, D-Las Vegas, whose committee sponsors the bill. “Where there’s a void of regulation, there’s corruption.”

The Nevada Gaming Commission would be put in charge of any such licensing scheme. The bill calls for rules to be developed by January 2012, and states that any online gambling site to receive a license would be required to have a partnership with a company that holds a non-restricted gambling license – in most cases, a land-based casino company in the USA.

It also stipulates that online sites would need to have a partnership with an existing non-restricted gambling license holder or an affiliate that has been in business for at least five years.

The bill will now move on to the Nevada State Senate, where it is expected to pass without much trouble. Given that the law would only put Nevada in excellent position to act as a licensing system in the case of federal regulations, and does not actually legalize or regulate anything on its own, the provisions of the bill aren’t seen as controversial.

At a hearing at the House Judiciary Committee, Holder stated that there were certain laws pertaining to online poker that had to be enforced. He also claimed that US authorities were doing exactly this when they were dealing with the shutdown of the top three poker sites which were found to be violating US poker laws regarding banking transactions with American financial institutions.

Federal prosecutors in Manhattan recently shut down three of the top US poker sites; Absolute Poker, PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker. They also indicted the founders of these sites for operating illegal businesses, transacting with American financial institutions and for posing as retail operators to regulate these transactions.

However, when Eric Holder was questioned regarding his opinion about poker and asked whether it was a game of chance or of skill he refused to comment on the question. When asked whether Phil Ivey was just lucky, Holder accepted that although he did not know Phil Ivey and was not a poker player he did think there was a certain extent of skill involved in the game.

Federal prosecutors have also recently filed a notification that states why poker should be considered to be a game of chance. This document also supports an agreement with James Davitt, who pleaded guilty to operating an illegal gambling business dealing with Full Tilt Poker to make online payments to poker players.

Adam Holder, a US Attorney General also commented on the issue and stated the onus was on Congress to clarify the meaning of the laws on online poker. However, according to the law, as long as the current laws on internet gambling exist, authorities will have to ensure that they are enforced and executed just the same.

Although the Federal Government seems keen to stick to their stand against US online poker, they may be put into a position where they have to agree that the laws regarding online poker have to be revised and clarified if they do not want this whole matter to be considered a legal mess. Also, for any future US online poker indictments, a clarification regarding the UIGEA law would be required.

The Government prohibited online gaming almost a decade ago but the research shows there is a market here and it’s growing rapidly.

Legal experts warn that prohibition has not worked and that Australians are vulnerable to online casinos run by criminals.

While online sports betting is legal in Australia it has been against the law for websites to offer online gaming like slots, poker and other casino games to Australians for almost a decade.

But a Productivity Commission report released in June shows online gambling is rising rapidly.

The report estimates the “unofficial” online poker and casino industry could be worth nearly a billion dollars.

Australians can access more than 2,000 offshore gaming websites via a simple search.

Some of these websites are specifically designed to target Australians. They offer free credit in Australian dollars and some even have the Australian flag prominently displayed on their websites.

Online gambling is also extending its reach with the rise of social media and internet on mobile devices.

The Productivity Commission’s report recommended some types of online gaming such as poker be legalised to ensure better regulation of the industry.

But the Federal Government has declined to take the commission’s advice and stands by its prohibition stance.

A Communications Department spokesman told the ABC the Government is getting advice on overseas approaches and that the issue will be discussed at the next COAG meeting.

Source: ABC News 12/14/2010

The Access Corporation is a consulting firm and resource provider for the online gaming industry providing assistance in starting casinos, poker rooms and betting venues. “When someone starts to research how to get started in online gaming, Vince is the ultimate resource to assist them.” quotes Chandler. “He practically knows or knows of almost everyone in the industry.”The company, with contacts and representatives worldwide, represents several corporate websites for information and assistance. http://PokerSiteCentral.com, http://GambleGaming.com, and http://GamblingBusiness.info. Vince can be reached at +1-310-209-8241 Ext. 226

The different features offered in White label 2.0 are a fully managed Poker Room and Sportsbook, Custom website and graphics, Admin back office and reporting, Flexible management of sportsbook, creating poker tables, tournaments, promotions, Personalized affiliate program, Deposit solutions, Player support, Hosting, and Gaming license. Mr. Van Horn said that the representation of Casi International S.A of Costa Rica has helped Access Corporation to offer the resources of the best White Label gaming software and other associated services like hosting, support, deposit processing, sportsbook line management and card room management of the poker network. New licensee applications are currently being accepted for consideration.

Mr. Van Horn added that the new product will be launched in phases across different countries in Latin America and Europe. Individuals and organizations that are interested in becoming a part of this new poker wave can join the new White Label 2.0 network. The games offered in this product include Texas Holdem, Omaha, 7 Card Stud, single and multi-table tournaments. The new product with a brand new user interface will give poker lovers a great playing experience. Mr. Van Horn added that members who subscribe to this new product can expect a jump start in terms of revenue. Supported by the right kind of marketing initiatives, White Label 2.0 can be a ‘Game Changer’ in online gaming.

The software operates under a player network that provides card room management, promotions, tournament guarantees, freerolls, satellites and affiliate management. Members will enjoy the benefits of fully branded software along with multi-language options, rakeback, player to player transfers, tournament leaderboard, customized lobby messages and personal player logos. Mr. Van Horn added that the new product is technologically advanced and offers user friendly sportsbook to the players. The sportsbook is designed to allow the licensee to completely control their own sportsbook, sports, leagues, teams, odds, player management, set limits, bonuses, etc. The operation can also be fully managed for the licensee while allowing the licensee to interact as they desire. Mr Van Horn added that currently there are few turnkey options in online poker and sportsbook that offer the flexibility as provided by White Label 2.0.

Access Corporation is an company specializing in providing resources for online gaming operations. For further information contact us via email at sales@GambleGaming.com or telephone at +1-310-209-8241 Ext. 226 Toll Free 888-699-7888 Ext. 226.
Website: http://GambleGaming.com

Now let us check out the investments because that is one of the prime interests of any entrepreneur. A white Label site can be launched for an investment of USD $ 10,000 to USD $ 60,000. This includes a customized website and the required infrastructure to launch the operations. The challenge comes with marketing the website to the right audience. Marketing strategies like VIP loyalty programs, tournaments, cash bonus on joining are known to work with players. The strategies need to be driven with focus and a clear direction.  The number of ‘real players’ in the site is going to make the difference. These are people who make deposits and play the game.

Under a White Label model, players can quickly connect with a network of poker players who are already active. Licensees get up to a 90% payout of the rake that is collected from the players.  The leading poker sites have more than 10000 players but some that are less popular have between 1000-5000 ‘real cash’ players. It is possible to break-even even with 100 active ‘real cash’ players.  Sites start generating revenues within the first month of operations if the marketing efforts are strategized well. It also means that you need to select the geography in which you want to make your site popular.

The popularity of online poker is on the rise with many new countries encouraging online poker sites. These countries are mainly in Europe and Latin America. With White Label technology at your fingertips it has become very easy for wannabe poker entrepreneurs to launch their own websites.  The best part of White Label poker is the operating model. It is a completely outsourced model of operating your business which leaves you with enough time to focus on marketing initiatives. The online poker arena is so wide that even a small fraction of players could rake in good revenues. So, take your chance before it is too late.

The decision of the Quebec Government would have a broader ramification on overall online Gaming in Canada. It is expected that other states which ban online Gaming would keep a close watch on the developments in Quebec and take a decision based upon the success or failure of the model. Mr. Van Horn said that many legal gaming operators in Quebec can set-up operation and earn decent revenue, a part of which will also flow into the local Government coffers. It is estimated that Quebec will earn $50 million from online Gaming operations. He said that Access Corporation welcomes this news and would work with existing partners in Canada to help operators to launch their operations. Online poker would not increase addiction as proper communication by operators would help players understand the drawbacks of playing a little too much.

It is expected that online poker in Quebec will become popular within a quick time frame and would garner a greater share of the market than any other form of the game. In Sweden as soon as the State owned Swedish lottery website went live it had a 25% of the market share within the next 4 hours. Online gaming in Sweden generated revenues of $600 million in 2008. Though poker and Casino analysts are not yet putting a figure to the overall revenue from online poker and casino in Quebec, it is estimated to be in hundreds of millions of dollars. The legalizing of online poker will also enable Banks and other intermediaries to process online poker and casino deposits which would make transactions easier.

Mr. Vince Horn added that September 2010 when the new rules will come into force, operators can start their operations within a quickly if they have their homework done. Online Gaming resource providers like Access Corporation can help operators to launch their online gaming sites quickly making a great Holiday Season for Quebec residents. With Quebec leading the way, it needs to be seen how other states in Canada react to this development.