Online Poker Resolution Sparks Ambivalence in North Dakota Senate

Although the North Dakota House of Representatives approved the online poker bill currently on the table, the senate is having a harder time making up its mind. After twice reaching a deadlock on Friday, the Senate Judiciary Committee decided to pass the decision on to the entire senate, without offering its recommendation as to the fate of the bill. Judiciary committees reportedly exert considerable influence in how the legislature votes. Thus, by offering its recommendation, the Senate Judiciary Committee could have helped the Senate reach a conclusive decision.

Some members of the Judiciary Committee were influenced by a warning that was sent to Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem by the Department of Justice, asserting online gambling’s illegality. Some fear that if North Dakota legalizes internet poker, then it will open itself up to a firing squad of lawsuits. Others remain unperturbed by the DOJ’s warnings, claiming that the illegality of online gambling is limited to sports betting.

The Appropriations Committee, which helps compose the state budget, is also considering the bill, under the justification that the online poker bill is likely to affect state spending. It is expected to offer its recommendation to either approve or defeat the bill.

In June 2006, the Senate is to consider a second bill necessary to pave way for online poker in South Dakota. The second bill would provide for a referendum among the state’s residents to decide whether or not to amend the constitution to allow internet poker.