Hopes were raised in the U.S. online poker community earlier this week when it was reported the New York Senate included a provision in its budget proposal that would legalize online poker in the Empire State.

And now, a recent article by Gambling Compliance has raised hopes even higher.

According to Gambling Compliance (paywall), the Chairman of the New York Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee, Gary Pretlow, is ready to tackle the issue, telling the industry trade publication he wanted to make sure the state’s land-based casinos were on board with such a proposal.

“I don’t want to throw any competition at them before they have opened their doors,” Pretlow told Gambling Compliance.

Pretlow went on to say, “If I can get assurances that the brick-and-mortar operations are all a part of it, then we will probably move the bill this year.”

Also of note in the Gambling Compliance article was the support of New York Gaming Association President James Featherstonhaugh, whose group represents the state’s racinos. Featherstonhaugh told GC the group’s concerns were addressed in the amended version of Senator John Bonacic’s online poker bill, S 5302-B, that was included in the senate’s budget.
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Essentially, the unexpected online poker push in New York could help online gaming proponents in Pennsylvania make the case for legalization in 2016. If other states are moving, Pennsylvania can’t sit on its hands.

More at Online Poker Report