The Poker Players Alliance (PPA), a grassroots advocacy group with more than a million members, is praising the release of the White House Citizen’s Briefing Book, a compilation of voter led policy proposals that includes as one of its top priorities the licensing and regulation of online poker.
John Pappas
“Poker players around the country are speaking with one voice to protect the game they love, and the White House is hearing that message,” said PPA Executive Director John Pappas.
“The popularity of online poker continues to grow, and the fact that poker is the top technology issue – and the 11th issue overall – proves that this is not a niche issue, but a national public policy that this Congress and this president should advance this year.”
As part of President Obama’s transition, the White House asked citizens to submit a policy proposal that would be voted on through their website, change.gov. Those with the strongest support were included in a “briefing book” to the president, and the number one technology issue was “Boost America’s Economy with Legal Online Poker,” which received 46,890 points.
In addition, House Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-MA) introduced legislation last week to establish U.S. licensing and regulation of online poker, providing greater protections for consumers.
“We hope the Administration hears and acts upon the clear message sent via the Citizen’s Breifing Book – keep online poker legal through thoughtful regulation,” said Pappas.
“The poker community stands ready to work with President Obama and Congress to make sure the will of the people is acted upon.”
