While most states in the US considering online gaming are focused on sports betting or casino, there are those that are also looking to add the online poker industry. Connecticut is the latest state to pass online poker legislation, becoming one of only a handful of states to offer the option in a regulated setting. HB 6451 was passed into law by the House and Senate, with the governor putting his signature to the measure a short time later.
HB 6451
The House would see a tough debate on the bill before the vote took place. With 122 in favor, compared to 21 against, the measure moved forward. The Senate approved the measure 28-6 and sent it to Governor Ned Lamont.
The governor is a supporter of online gambling and had negotiated the deal with tribal nations in the state to see online gambling come to pass. When signing the bill, Lamont stated that the state is on the cusp of providing a modern gaming experience that will lead to success in the future.
With the approval, the Mohegan and Mashantucket Pequot Indian tribes will be able to launch online gambling in several formats. The servers for operations will be located on tribal lands and will be able to provide online poker, casino games, and sports betting.
It is unclear how fast services will start in the state. The United States Department of the Interior must still approve the compact changes and publish it into the register. Once this process is complete, the setup of the various online industries can begin.
While Connecticut will soon offer online poker gaming, it is just one of only a few states that offers the option. It seems poker has been thrown to the wayside when it comes to online gambling consideration by lawmakers. The industry has proven to be less popular than online casino gaming, so lawmakers are more apt to set up legislation for it rather than card games.
Hopefully this trend will eventually change and lead to more online poker legalization across the country.
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