Lawmakers Advance Bill to Expand Regulated Online Poker

Shared Liquidity Back on the Table

A bill advancing through committee this week would let regulated online poker operators pool players across state lines, a structure known as shared liquidity. Supporters argue the change is necessary to keep regulated poker rooms competitive with unregulated offshore sites.

Why It Matters

Online poker traffic has struggled in states that regulate in isolation, since smaller player pools mean fewer available games and softer competition for the biggest tournaments. Shared liquidity agreements between states have historically boosted engagement significantly wherever they've been implemented.

Key Provisions

1. Operators must hold licenses in every participating state
2. Player funds must remain segregated and independently audited
3. States retain the right to opt out of the compact at any time
4. Revenue and tax reporting stays separate per state

Industry Reaction

Operators have broadly welcomed the proposal, while some smaller land-based casino partners have raised concerns about how tournament guarantees would be split. A vote is expected before the end of the legislative session.

The Bigger Picture

If passed, the compact could serve as a template for other states weighing similar legislation, potentially reshaping the regulated online poker landscape over the next several years.