PokerWorks

As some states remain opposed to any form of gambling, more have decided to consider the many benefits of legalizing it, in addition to simply responding to the public demand for it. The realization that poker is a game of skill and that other casino-type games are forms of entertainment that many people choose, of their own free will to play, leads to more places in the United States looking to cash in on the revenue stream that results. While Pennsylvania took the lead to be the first to legalize table games in 2010, Delaware’s efforts are not far behind.

A bill to allow Delaware casinos to add table games like poker, blackjack, and craps to its offerings has passed through the state’s House by a solid 27-5 vote, which allows it to move on to the Senate for debate and decision. The bill, introduced by Governor Jack Markell, was originally proposed to add a new stream of revenue to help with state budget problems, and his endorsement of the measure has propelled it through half the legislative battle. A state that already understands the return on endeavors like slot machines, horse racing, and professional football betting seems prepared to embrace poker and other table games as well.

Revenue possibilities from the passage of the bill include upwards of $40 million in the first year alone, even with the limitation of being offered only at the three facilities that currently possess slot machine licenses. While some members of the Delaware legislature have proposed increasing that number to five casinos, the bill may pass as is, unless the Senate attempts to revise it before passage.

With Delaware and Pennsylvania realizing the benefits of table games and soon to reap the rewards of legalizing such endeavors, it may be only a matter of time before other states broach the issue in order to solve their own economic crises.