Joe Barton Introduces New Federal Online Poker Bill
For the second time Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, is trying to push federal internet poker legislation through Congress.
Rep. Joe Barton is hoping that his second attempt at an online poker bill will be passed by congress.
The bill, titled the Internet Poker Freedom Act of 2013, would allow states and Indian tribes to legalise the activity without worrying about federal intervention.
Last month Rep. Peter King R-N.Y., introduced an internet gaming regulation bill, however, Barton believes that a poker only bill has a better chance of passing Congress.
Barton said that he has confidence that Congress would “accomplish my goal of protecting the integrity of the game and the rights of those who play it.” He said that the bill offers players various protections and includes safeguards for children and problem gamblers.
Barton went on to say that, “Poker is an all-American game. I continue to be supportive of the Americans who play poker online. They deserve to have a legal, on-shore system that makes sure everyone is playing in an honest, fair structure.”
A few states have already legalised online poker but Barton feels that the complexity of the system could leave players at risk. It is widely believed that the bill will receive strong support and the Poker Players Alliance has labelled it a “common-sense bill.”
