June 13th, 2014
By Poker Players Alliance
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Weekly Update from PPA Executive Director, John Pappas
PPA Responds to Amaya/PokerStars Deal and Answers Top Questions
The major story coming out of this week is undoubtedly the announced acquisition of Rational Group, the parent company of PokerStars, by Canadian-based online gaming company Amaya Gaming. The $4.9 billion dollar deal will create the world’s largest Internet gaming company and position the PokerStars brand and platform to reenter the U.S. market. The PPA applauds this news and I believe that it will grow the game we all love. Please take a moment to read our official statement.
The deal also has raised many questions and speculation about the future of PokerStars in the U.S. Let me start by saying I think Amaya is the right partner for PokerStars. They have a good track record and are genuinely committed to the consumer experience. Amaya holds dozens of licenses and certifications worldwide, most notably in New Jersey. This is significant as it would appear to clear the way for the PokerStars brand, under the ownership of Amaya, to be available to New Jersey poker players. If this does happen, it could help the state close the gap on the lofty revenue projections made. We hear from PPA members, not just in New Jersey, but all over the country asking when they can play on PokerStars again. Well, today, we are closer to that becoming a reality.
Many players have also asked what this means for PokerStars in California. As you know, current legislation in that state contains a “bad actor” provision which seeks to exclude companies that operated in the U.S. previously (more directly, PokerStars). The PPA has shared our position on the bad actor language and our State Director outlined these concerns in an op-ed published in the Orange County Register.
Yesterday’s news should change the dynamic in California (and throughout the country) with respect to the bad actor provisions. However, the proposed provisions are far-reaching and some have suggested that even the PokerStars asset (not matter the ownership) would be excluded. Any exclusionary language that targets assets is very problematic and cannot remain in the bill. Never before has a gaming asset been deemed “tainted” and “unsuitable” for licensing and such exclusionary measures would set a troubling precedent in gaming law. Just think of the early days of Vegas when the mob owned and ran the casinos. I also question the constitutionality of a law that punishes a company or its assets when they have never violated state or federal law and even further have settled all matters with the Department of Justice and admitted no wrongdoing. The language just doesn’t make sense and doesn’t belong in any bill.
Finally, the players have asked and the media has speculated whether yesterday’s acquisition would accelerate resolution of Isai Scheinberg’s (founder of PokerStars) outstanding issues with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). I certainly hope there is swift resolution of these matters. It is important for the poker community to close the Black Friday chapter and move forward. An agreement between Mr. Scheinberg and the DOJ would help do that.
In conclusion, Amaya’s purchase of PokerStars is positive news for poker players and our game. Only time will tell how it will truly impact the poker landscape, but I am optimistic about the future.
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Proud to play, John Pappas
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The Poker Players AllianceDedicated to Protecting America’s Favorite Card Game The Poker Players Alliance is a nonprofit membership organization comprised of poker players and enthusiasts from around the United States who have joined together to speak with one voice to promote the game and to protect poker players’ rights. Visit us at theppa.org
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