Senate Votes in Favor of Online Poker in New York

With a 53 to 5 vote, the State Senate has passed the bill that would legalize online poker in New York. If the Assembly approves the bill, New York will be the fourth state to legalize the game.

The New York State Senate has given its approval to bill S05302, that would allow “certain interactive poker games be considered games of skill rather than games of luck.” If the bill passes through the Assembly, New York could be the fourth state in the US to legalize internet poker. According to US gambling news, the bill would allow only for state’s 11 racinos to apply for a license.

Millions of new tax revenue from online poker in New York

These are the final days of the legislative session, so the Assembly has to discuss and vote on the bill this week, said Michael Whyland, Assembly spokesman. If the bill is signed into law, the racinos will have to pay USD 10 million for a 10 year license, and 15% tax on their annual online gambling revenue. MGM General Consuel, John McManus said that regulated online poker in New York could “generate millions in new tax revenue that could be used for education and other critical investments.”

The online poker bill, S05302, states that