PokerStars New Jersey License Application Suspended for Two Years

New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGC) has suspended PokerStars’ application for online gambling for two years due to ongoing concerns about the company’s founder Isai Scheinberg.

The Department of Justice has Scheinberg under indictment for the company’s activities in the US after the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006 was passed. The DGE confirmed to PokerStars that the decision was based upon Scheinberg’s activities and the involvement of other PokerStars executives with online gambling in the US.

A spokeswoman for the DGE said that it is possible for PokerStars’ application to be opened before two years elapses but only if there are major changes to the company’s operations.

“The division… may consider a request for relief to reactivate the application if significantly changed circumstances are demonstrated at which time the division’s investigation of PokerStars and its affiliated entities and associated individuals will be resumed to assess suitability.”

PokerStars’ spokesman, Eric Hollreiser and William J. Pascrell, a state lobbyist who represents PokerStars, said that the company will continue fighting for a license. Pascrell said, “PokerStars is committed to continuing the dialogue, working towards licensing and fulfilling their commitment to the state of New Jersey.”