New iPoker Bill Proposed in USA and Ivey in Ireland

Congressman Joe Barton has introduced a new bill that if passed will pave the way for the licensing and regulation of internet poker within the United States. Additionally, there are rumors that Phil Ivey has been meeting with Full Tilt representatives in Ireland.

Congressman Joe Barton (R-TX)

Republican Congressman Joe Barton of Texas has introduced the "Internet Gambling Prohibition, Poker Consumer Protection, and Strengthening UIGEA Act of 2011" in the United States.

The bill, formally HR 2366, expressly allows internet poker to be licensed and regulated within the U.S.

In addition, the bill would amend existing laws that prohibit internet gaming to strengthen the ban on most other forms of gambling.

Only entities that have operated sizable gambling facilities within the United States for five years or longer will be eligible for a license within the first two years after the bill is passed. Basically, only American casinos will be able to operate initially.

All players will need to be 21 years old to play online, and credit cards will be banned as a method of payment.

There is speculation that this type of bill (only legalizing poker and not other forms of gambling) has a greater chance of success than similar previous ones.

For those of you with legal minds, you can check out the bill yourself at Subject: Poker.

Ivey in Ireland

Sources from Full Tilt Poker informed Subject: Poker that Phil Ivey has spent much of the last week meeting with Full Tilt executives at their headquarters in Ireland.

Last month, Ivey filed a lawsuit against the company in which he alleged that they had caused significant damage to his reputation and earning power through their mismanagement.

While the nature of the meetings is currently unknown, we'll make sure to let you know as any details are revealed.