Washington Supreme Court Hears Online Poker Case
Written by Matt W | Saturday, May 29th, 2010
The decision by the Washington State Supreme Court to hear the case of Rousso vs State is seen as a breakthrough for online poker proponents such as the Poker Players Alliance.
Rousso believes that the state is acting in an unconstitutional way by making it a felon for residents to visit online poker sites and wager there.
Thursday saw the conclusion of oral arguments presented before the Supreme Court, and an amazing number of people turned out on the steps of the court to support the change in laws. The Poker Players Alliance, which has been instrumental in supporting Rousso through his arguments issued a statement, signed by PPA Chairman, former Senator Alfonse D’Amata, which said:
“The PPA is pleased that the Washington State Supreme Court agreed to hear the case, and today’s arguments have provided the court compelling reasons to reverse this ridiculous law. Washington is the only state in America that makes its citizens felons for enjoying a game of poker – even penny ante games – on their own computers in their own homes. This law is not about the legislature protecting the state’s citizens, but rather it is rather about protecting special interests and tribal casinos from competition.”
“In fact,” continued the statement, “a recent poll of Washington votes found that almost 80% of voters oppose this law. The court of public opinion has spoken and now the state Supreme Court must strike down this unconstitutional and invasive law.”
The PPA said that it was amazed by the turnout of poker players who joined the support on the steps of the Supreme Court during Rousso’s case.
“These Washington poker enthusiasts are doctors, lawyers, auto mechanics and school teachers, not hardened felons,” the statement said. “The Poker Players Alliance is grateful that the local poker community is so dedicated, and I hope local lawmakers know that these voters care deeply about their freedoms.”
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· Written by Matt W · Filed Under Poker Gossip · Comments Off
