Licensed in Nevada 888 Becomes First US Online Gambling Provider

After many years in the legal limbo the American online gambling scene has finally got a legally licensed operator.

The pioneering company is the UK gambling provider 888, which is actually returning to the US market after almost seven years of absence. Forced to leave in 2006 due to adverse changes in American gambling laws, the casino and poker games operator is now back in full glory.

According to CEO Brian Mattingley “this is an historic moment for 888. This is the first time a company uniquely providing online gaming has been licensed by any US jurisdiction.” The license was awarded to 888 Holdings and the Treasure Island Hotel and Casino as the land-based partner.

Historic this decision may be, but surprising it is not, considering that Nevada has been pressing ahead full steam with intrastate legalization of online gambling, in an attempt to retain its leading role ahead of New Jersey in the US market.

Still, the decision by the Nevada Gaming Commission is a notable milestone in the American online casino history. Moreover, its license will make it possible for 888 to not only supply the software for the upcoming Treasure Island Casino online poker room, but also to team up companies like Caesars Interactive Entertainment and slot machine company WMS Industries.

With the floodgates open more companies are expected to be licensed soon both in Nevada and in other states. Of course being first has a significant marketing value, which 888 will certainly exploit to the fullest.

On a related piece of American gambling news, rumors are that the fizzled efforts to pass a federal legislation are about to be revived with new legalization proposals landing on lawmakers’ desks within weeks.