New York Lawmaker Introduces Bill to Legalize Poker

New York State Senator, John Sabini, has introduced a bill in the legislature that would legalize poker in bars and restaurants. Sabini, from Queens, feels that legal poker games could benefit many – the establishments that host the games, charities, the players, and, of course, the government, which would receive taxes from the events.

Sabini, also a ranking member of the Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee, said that initially, the bill would allow for only non-cash prizes to be won for individual games. Another interesting rule stipulates that the admission fee for tournaments could be no greater than $50 and only the winner of the tournament can take home a cash prize, which can be no more than $100. What exactly would be done with the remainder of the entry fees was not mentioned; there would presumably be a large sum of money left over from a $50 buy-in tournament with only a $100 top prize. One might presume that the other prizes, and even some of the grand prize, would be non-cash awards, but that remains to be seen.

All establishments that wish to hold poker games would need to apply for a “social poker” license with their local municipality.

Originally published May 23, 2005