Posted by AlCantHang | Filed under Bloggers on the Rail
On Monday morning, the Poker Players Alliance held a news conference in the Rio to give an update on the current state of poker related legislation and announce some new initiatives. John Pappas, Senator Alfonse D’Amato and Representative Shelley Berkely spoke briefly. Rep. Berkely gave a recap of how former Senator Bill Frist rammed the UIEGA through Congress attached to the Port Security Bill, a bill that was a sure-fire lock to pass, and the only way to sneak it past the voters. Rep. Berkely was the only member of the House to make her way to the floor to make her feelings known on this shady move.
They also highlighted several new plans in the works in Congress. Rep. Menedez on New Jersey has introduced a bill which looks to define and provide an exemption for “games of skill” on the internet to include poker. It would be the second go round for the bill but provides much needed debate on the issue. PPA Champion Barney Frank continues his fight to completely overturn the UIEGA and it appears there might be a Finance Committee hearing in the very near future.
PPA Executive Director John Pappas highlighted several new plans to bring attention to our cause in front of US leaders of Congress and the country.
He announced creation of the National Poker Week to take place after WSOP play wraps for the summer. From July 19th to the 25th, poker players both professional and amateur are encouraged to make a trek to Washington, DC to meet with their local representatives in Congress voicing concerns and support for our game. If unable to make the trip, players can still email their congressman. Information can be found at the National Poker Week or Poker Players Alliance websites.
During that week, the Poker Players Alliance will meet with President Obama on this issue and plan to present him with a petition signed by players. The petition states:
“What’s most important to me is your support for my rights. Please: 1) exempt poker from the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) and 2) license and regulate internet poker in the US. 3) Respect the rights of law-abiding Americans who love to play this great game of skill.”
All players can sign the petition online at PokerPetition.com, nearly 50,000 players have signed since the launch on Monday. Make your voice heard, sign the petition.
After the press conference, Senator D’Amato took his seat in the Seniors Event for his first ever WSOP tournament and Rep. Berkely was given the honor to say the traditional start of tournament instructions “shuffle up and deal!”
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