Although the Washington D.C. has stolen much of the spotlight as of late regarding the legislative challenges posed against online poker and gambling in the U.S., Washington State has actually gone ahead and adopted measures against online poker and other forms of virtual gambling. Washington State recently passed into law a piece of legislation that seeks to prosecute people who use the “internet (sic) and certain other interactive electronic or mechanical devises to engage in gambling."

Initially introduced in the Senate by State Senator Margarita Prentice, SB 6613 glided through on to the House of Representatives for further consideration. Before being passed on to the House, however, the bill was amended to make the proposed punishment for online poker and other gambling even more severe. This amendment provided that placing bets online would be considered a Class C Felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, instead of a mere gross misdemeanor.

The bill had similar success in the House, passing through on a 93-5 vote. After passing in the House, the anti-online gambling bill still needed Governor Christine Gregoire's final stamp of approval, which it received last week. The new state-wide anti-gambling will take effect on June 7th. Washington State online poker players have just over a month to find a new hobby or face the risk of jail time and a criminal record.

Source:  Poker777 Staff

Thursday, 04 May 2006