Loophole in online legislation?
 

First off, I'd like to make it clear that I am not an authority on online gambling legislation, but I was hoping there were some on this forum that could perhaps fill that role.

Question: If I were to open a brick and mortar internet 'cafe' where people would be playing online poker (or other gambling games) against eachother in the same room, would it have to adhere to normal gambling legislation? Or would the fact that it is being played online through offshore companies negate all brick and mortar gambling legislation?

Re: Loophole in online legislation?
 

I'm pretty sure one or more of the Vegas casino's said they would be doing exactly this?

Re: Loophole in online legislation?
 

[ QUOTE ]
If I were to open a brick and mortar internet 'cafe' where people would be playing online poker (or other gambling games) against eachother in the same room, would it have to adhere to normal gambling legislation?

[/ QUOTE ]Yes, assuming you are doing this in the US, you would have to follow State law.

[ QUOTE ]
Loophole in online legislation?

[/ QUOTE ] If you mean the UIGEA, it only covers unlawful gambling and you have wisely followed State law. Legal gambling isn't covered and needs no "loophole".

Re: Loophole in online legislation?
 

[ QUOTE ]
First off, I'd like to make it clear that I am not an authority on online gambling legislation, but I was hoping there were some on this forum that could perhaps fill that role.

Question: If I were to open a brick and mortar internet 'cafe' where people would be playing online poker (or other gambling games) against eachother in the same room, would it have to adhere to normal gambling legislation? Or would the fact that it is being played online through offshore companies negate all brick and mortar gambling legislation?

[/ QUOTE ]

You will still need a gaming license issued by that particular state and/or that particular city.

Otherwise, you will violate state and or local gaming laws.

Bottom line: no one has a "right" to be in the gaming business. The government, whether it is at the federal, state, or local level, gets to decide who gets to be in the gaming business and what games can be offered.

Re: Loophole in online legislation?
 

What you describe generally is under development by Harrahs, among others. HOWEVER, the big difference is that the servers will NOT be offshore, but on the b&m casino property or properties and will not be open to other players.