Poker Players Alliance Forums » Ask Skallagrim

Various State Laws

(5 posts)
  • Started 1 year ago by Frederick Narciso
  • Latest reply from Gary Reed

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  1. Frederick Narciso
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    I am interested in opening a legit poker room. Where in the country can I do this. California, right? Any other places? With all these judgements being passed, it's still unclear if I can open one legitimately. I know it varies from state to state, but which states can I even look at to start one up?

    Posted 1 year ago #
  2. Skallagrim
    State Director & Moderator
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    Dont ask for much, do you?

    This question is way too broad for answer, I'm afraid. The big and slight variations from state to state are the proper subject for a book, not an answer on an internet forum.

    In general, the western states are friendlier to card rooms than the eastern and southern ones. Since the ones that truly allow card rooms all have extensive licensing requirements, you may be more interested in a bar with poker, which also varies greatly state by state in terms of what is allowed. Take a look at what they allow in Montana, Indiana, or North Dakota. You can begin your research here:

    http://www.gambling-law-us.com/State-Laws/

    Skallagrim

    Posted 1 year ago #
  3. Frederick Narciso
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    Well I posted about PA since they just had that case go through and you didnt get back to me. I looked on the site, and it still is unclear. Since it was ruled a game of skill, wouldn't opening a room be like opening a card club that played bridge? Or hosted a chess tournament? As in, a non-gambling house providing players with a venue to congregate and the equipment necessary to play this game of skill.

    Posted 1 year ago #
  4. Skallagrim
    State Director & Moderator
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    I dont recall a post by you Quietlike, if I missed it I apologize.

    With respect to PA, yes we have had a victory there, but the victory is far from final. The case will go to the Court of Appeals. Until that Court speaks, the law is still unsettled - so you would be taking a risk in opening a card room in PA.

    If we win in the PA Court of Appeals and/or the PA Supreme Court, then you are right, and would be taking no risk (other than making sure you had any needed local permits in order) - when poker is finally recognized as a game of skill, and therefore not "gambling", a poker club will be just a s legal as a chess club.

    Skallagrim

    Posted 1 year ago #
  5. Gary Reed
    State Director & Moderator
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    Recently in Colorado we won a case based on the jury agreeing that poker is a game of skill. Should we prevail at appeal; the DA in this case is appealing the verdict, you may soon be able to add Colorado to that list. That is our hope and goal.

    Posted 1 year ago #

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