Bill would set regulations for Internet poker

(AP) - Nevada Assembly members have introduced a bill that would allow the state to regulate Internet poker.

AB258 was introduced Thursday and calls for the Nevada Gaming Commission to create regulations for Internet poker and the manufacturers of related gaming equipment. Existing law allows Nevada casinos to operate interactive games using electronic money transfers but is ambiguous about Internet games.

The bill's preamble says legal Internet poker could benefit Nevada's economy and could be limited with technology to the state and other places where it is legal.

It acknowledges the widespread popularity of online poker and emphasized that Nevada has the expertise to take leadership in drafting regulations.

Regulations must guard against underage gambling and cheating and set standards that protect players' privacy.

AB258 now heads to the Assembly Committee on Judiciary.