New Jersey will pool online poker with other states

It has been reported that the expanded gaming bill currently working its way through the New Jersey State Legislature could lead to multi-state pooling of U.S. poker players with New Jersey playing a lead role in regulation of the industry.

NJ Senator Ray Lesniak was reported as saying that in light of the United States Department of Justice’s memo opinion piece regarding the Wire Act of 1961, he now expects New Jersey to form compacts with other states to create a larger pool of players.

“Only a handful of states can have a regulatory scheme and possess the experience in operating these types of games — obviously Nevada and New Jersey, and likely California,” said Lesniak . “It would be a lot easier for most other states to have a compact with us and do a profit-sharing agreement. Market share is very important in this business, and that’s why it’s important to be there first.”

Lesniak is also reported to be saying that he “welcomes federal legislation,” but “Once New Jersey is up and running, there’s no way the federal government would shut us down. I know our U.S. Senators and Congressional delegation would prevent that from happening. When a federal bill passes, I think it will just open it up nationwide and, because of our marketing share and agreements with other states, we’ll be in position to take advantage.”