California online poker bill supported by the horse racing industry

The new legislation has been publicly backed by nine horse racing industry leaders.

US.- Nine horse racing industry executives jointly wrote a letter addressed to State Assemblyman Adam Gray (D-District 21) extending their support to  the “Internet Poker Consumer Protection Act of 2016” or Assembly Bill 2863.

“We write on behalf of the racetracks, fairs, jockeys, pari-mutuel clerks and thousands of California horse owners and trainers who have invested hundreds of millions of dollars into our state’s economy,” says the letter. “On behalf of the California horse racing and breeding industries, we write to express our appreciation to you and your staff for your efforts on AB 2863.”

Under the new bill, the first US$60 million in iPoker revenues will be directed not to the state but to the horse racing industry. 95 percent would be deposited to the California Horse Racing Board, whilst the remaining five percent will go to the Fair and Exposition Fund.

Now that Gray has secured the support from the horse racing alliance, the next move will take place on Wednesday when the California State Assembly Governmental Organization (GO) Committee hears AB 2863. Gray, who also chairs the GO Committee, has singled out the legislation for a full hearing this week.

If everything goes well, the bill will start its way to Governor Jerry Brown’s (D) desk. Although it is still early to bet on it, the truth is online poker is one step closer to be legalised in California.