Poker; definition of illegal gambling and charitable gaming, etc. (SB726)

Introduced By

Sen. Louise Lucas (D-Portsmouth)

Description

Poker; definition of illegal gambling and charitable gaming; poker games authorized; regulation of poker tournaments. Defines "poker games" as games of skill and therefore not illegal gambling. The bill allows a qualified organization to conduct poker games in conjunction with its charitable gaming activities, but does not allow a charitable organization to conduct poker tournaments. The bill requires the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the Charitable Gaming Board to regulate poker tournaments, which are defined in the bill as a competition organized for the purpose of conducting poker games at one or multiple tables where (i) competitors play a series of poker games, (ii) prizes are awarded to winning players on a fixed or proportional payout basis, and (iii) the total prize amount awarded to all winning players at the event is $50,000 or more. Finally, the bill requires poker tournament sponsors to obtain a permit before conducting a tournament and tournament managers, operators and suppliers to be registered with the Department. The bill contains technical amendments. Read the Bill »

Outcome

History