PokerStars voices support for US bill

PokerStars has come out strongly in support of proposed US legislation with an uncharacteristic public statement stating it would not be squeezed out of any regulated market as it is operating legally in the US.

H.R. 2267, The Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act was passed by a House of Representatives committee by a vote of 41-22.

PokerStars said the bill, which would seek to regulate online gambling in the US for the first time, was 'the most significant US legislative accomplishment in the history of the internet gaming industry.'

But interestingly it commented directly on an amendment that would prevent anyone from obtaining a licence if they have knowingly participated in 'illegal internet gambling activity after enactment of the UIGEA in 2006'

PokerStars in an unusual move for an operator that is usually loathe to comment on business matters released a statement stating it would not be adversely affected by 'the availability of a license for a respected operator such as PokerStars.'

'As reflected in legal opinions provided to PokerStars, its activities in the US are and at all times have been lawful,' the statement continued.

Paul Telford, PokerStars General Counsel stated that PokerStars maintains its strong support for H.R. 2267 and encourages the full House and ultimately the Senate to move quickly to secure passage during the current Congressional term.

He conclude PokerStars would look forward to working with iincumbent and new operators 'in promoting a safe and healthy online poker industry in the United States, as it currently does under similar licensing models in Italy and France.'