US multi-state online poker, also referred to as interstate poker, is a type of poker where players from different states can play. In addition to bringing more players into the overall player pool, the US multi-state market also gives operators more opportunity to spread their game types more widely.
The first state to pass legislation allowing online poker was Delaware. After Delaware passed the law in 2013, the next two states to legalize online poker were Nevada and New Jersey. As a result of these legislative victories, the online poker industry moved into a new era. But there was still one major roadblock standing in the way.
It was the DOJ’s attempt to apply the Wire Act to online poker. This meant that companies operating in the US would have to get the necessary licenses from each individual state. If they didn’t, the DOJ could file federal prosecution. Although this action was a bad sign for new state-level regulation of online poker, the Department of Justice eventually turned its back on the idea.
The Supreme Court ruled that the Wire Act did not apply to online poker. However, the DOJ argued that the legislation regulating poker was unconstitutional. Since then, there have been many lawsuits over this issue, which may affect the future of US multi-state online poker.
PokerStars was the first operator to capitalize on the opportunity. They built the first multi-state network in the US. By January 2023, they were combining player pools in Michigan and New Jersey. With more players, operators would be able to offer bigger payouts in tournaments. These larger guarantees are an important factor to the health of the US online poker market.
Despite these obstacles, some players were able to recoup some of their losses. That’s why the online poker industry has come a long way in the last few years. Even though it’s not yet legal in Pennsylvania, the state’s lawmakers are moving toward the idea of legalizing it.
In addition to allowing players to play online, the US has also allowed casinos to offer games online. However, this requires a membership cardroom that costs a monthly fee. Licensed sites are a much safer option. Also, there is no need for an operator to pay interest on a player’s bankroll. There are strict testing and quality assurance procedures to ensure the integrity of the games.
Some states, like California, can only join the MSIGA if they have a separate legislation regulating online poker. This means that if a company wants to operate in the state of Alaska, they would need to partner with other states to form a shared player pool.
Currently, there are fewer than forty poker networks that have detectable traffic levels. Almost all of the traffic happens on a few major networks. However, more than 600 independent doorways into these networks exist. Adding more player pools will help to create a larger network, which will allow for more players, bigger cash game action, and better tournaments.