In reality, it's not illegal for U.S. citizens to play poker online. In fact, brand new poker sites, only available to U.S. players, are popping up regularly - one of these is Players Only Poker.
If you're still confused about the legality of playing poker online, let's once and for all clarify how UIEGA affects online gambling.
The SAFE Port Act
The SAFE (Security and Accountability for Every) Port Act passed in 2006, as one of the final acts of the Republican controlled congress. While a majority of the act allowed for needed port security, some anti-gambling activists managed to slip in a rider to try to restrict American access to online gambling sites.
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act
Title VIII of the SAFE Port act, encompasses the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. This section, supported by former House Banking Committee chairman Jim Leach and Virginia Representative Robert Goodlatte, makes it illegal for American financial institutions to transfer funds to online gambling sites, other than the ones preferred by the authors of the bill, specifically, lottery and horse racing sites.
What the UIGEA Means to Players
It is not illegal for you to play on an online casino site, even if you are an American. What this will mean is that it may be more difficult for you to find ways to transfer funds to the online site, since they cannot be transmitted directly from your bank account or using a credit card. However, your preferred online casino will have multiple suggestions on the best way to transfer funds, and you are bound to find one that is right for you.
If you wish to be on the safe side, choose a site like Players Only Poker. A poker room that only is available to U.S. players.
Comments on this Article
clint (Dec 01, 2009)
Players only is the biggest scamming poker site out there, They owe me over 10k and will not pay, also I was at a table game when 5 aces were shown, they said that it was a program error and that it was fixed right away but they did not refund any money. I called customer support regarding my withdraw of 10k and the guy laughed, called me a stupid american and hung up on me. I will do everything in my power to shut this site down, evrn if it means going to the server itself.
Rahul (Nov 01, 2009)
I've never had a problem receiving payouts. Actually they are quicker than any other site except for Full Tilt. Bank withdrawals for $1k went through within a week twice successfully in less than a month.
therainmaker (Jan 10, 2009)
Players Only is NOT making payouts. They are a scam site hiding behind the American Flag. When you deposit at PlayersOnly, no one cares whether or not you are being ripped off. It's a perfect setup for a criminal business. Fortunately, they do give weekly 'updates' to let you know your money is on the way. And as long as you know they owe you, you won't be broke! God Bless America!
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