Pennsylvania Launches First Legal Online Poker Platform
Pennsylvania has recently launched its very first legal online poker room. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has labeled this as a test phase regarding the poker software and calls it a "soft launch." The website is managed in collaboration with PokerStars (The Stars Group, TSG) and Mount Airy Casino. So, what are the expectations from this platform?
Launch Date Remains Uncertain
TSG's Chairman Matt Primeaux stated, "We're thrilled to welcome PokerStars as the first and only online poker option for players in Pennsylvania." Cooperating with Mount Airy Casino, PokerStars will now manage the first legal online poker room in Pennsylvania, which has a population of over 12 million. However, the project is currently still in the pilot phase, with a "soft launch" being used to test all technical applications. The results of this testing will be used to determine when the website will be officially launched.
PokerStars' new platform was initially launched under the domain pokerstarsmtairycasino.com on November 4 at 2 pm and will go live again multiple times in the coming days, initially at certain intervals. As long as there are no problems, the system will be transferred to a permanent test phase by the end of the week at the latest. The local gambling authority PGCB (Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board) is placing several regulatory conditions on this activation. As PGCB spokesperson Douglas Harbach stated, "We're ready to oversee the test launch of the online gaming site, which is under Mount Airy Casino's license. This includes testing a poker room. However, please note that the launch of the site may be delayed if there are problems."
Pennsylvania Proving Itself a Pioneer
Pennsylvania is the fourth state to offer legal online poker after New Jersey, Nevada, and Delaware. Following the repeal of PASPA in May 2018 and the subsequent repeal of the nationwide ban on sports betting, the responsibility for regulating online gambling lies with the individual states. Pennsylvania has now legalized online sports betting, online casinos, and online poker, placing itself at the forefront of the US market, estimated to be worth billions.
TSG is already present in all three areas. "We're proud to be the only online provider currently authorized to offer all three forms of regulated gambling in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania," Primeaux commented on the development. TSG products are now available on all web and mobile devices, including iOS and Android. PokerStars is the only regulated online poker site in Pennsylvania at present. Given that more than 200 billion hands have been played globally via the portal since its inception in 2001, the state could undoubtedly benefit.
The Offering for Players
As part of the soft launch, players won't have access to the full range of games, with the full rollout date yet to be disclosed. However, they will be able to try out Omaha, No-Limit Hold'em, and Razz variants during the test phase. Additionally, Sit & Goes and multi-table tournaments are scheduled to take place. Unfortunately, PokerStars' Speed format "Zoom" won't be available just yet.
While the platform's development is not yet complete, the move has already been well-received by the local poker community. One Pennsylvania-based player commented to the news site Pokernews:
"Exciting times! Finally, PokerStars is available in my hometown, and I couldn't be more excited. Pennsylvania players have been looking forward to this day; I can't wait to get in on all the action. See you at the table!"
PokerStars has mentioned that the overall range is not yet finalized. They plan on introducing a series of "customized" variants specifically developed for the market. Players will notice "many similarities" and "some significant differences" compared to the regular PokerStars range.
Participation Requirements
Despite the excitement surrounding the online poker option, there are certain conditions for playing: players must be 21 years of age or older and physically located within the boundaries of Pennsylvania. Residency is not a necessity, but players must possess a valid social security number in Pennsylvania to play for real money.
Participating in PokerStars with an account from another US state is not allowed. Payment options include PayPal, Visa/Mastercard, Echecks, PayNearMe, or Stars Transfer.
Could Legalization Spread Across the US?
Alongside sports betting, poker is one of the most popular leisure activities for United States citizens. Discussions about legalization have also ensued within other nations. Currently, US presidential candidate Andrew Yang (Democratic Party) is supportive of nationalizing online poker. Yang sees benefits for both players and providers in legalization.
Though it's doubtful Yang will triumph over Trump in the upcoming 2020 election, this politician is bringing up a significant matter. The notion resonates with the poker community. The situation's progression is yet to be observed.
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Source: www.onlinecasinosdeutschland.com
