PokerStars Secures Alliance with California Tribe

PokerStars's discussion with Californian tribes and cardrooms was old new by the time confirmation was given by politicians on Wednesday. The Rational Group has joined forces with the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, who run three of the largest cardrooms, the Commerce Club, the Hawaiian Gardens Casino and the Bicycle Casino. The objective is to establish a position should online poker become legal in California. On Wednesday, Morongo chairman Robert Martin said, “We're pleased to announce our agreement with these established and proven organizations that represent millions of California poker players. We're confident that, together, we can offer a safe, secure, high-quality online poker experience that brings financial benefits to California while providing the highest level of accountability, choice, service and protection for consumers.” Keith Sharp, on behalf of the cardrooms in the new coalition, said, “As operators of the world's largest card clubs, we are excited to join the Morongo and PokerStars to provide California players with familiar brands to choose from in a well-regulated online poker experience. "California has a long history and deep expertise in regulating live poker and we look forward to working with legislators and our industry colleagues to pass a bill that enhances competition and consumer protection, while providing the state Gambling Control Commission and state Department of Justice with the regulatory tools, staff and other resources needed to apply their expertise in vetting and assessing the suitability of prospective operators and subcontractors, and providing strict ongoing regulatory oversight.” Rational Group strategy and business spokesman Guy Templer said, “PokerStars has a great history with California poker players, who want us in the market. We are the worldwide leader in regulated online poker and hold more national licenses than any other operator. We look forward to bringing our best practices in responsible gaming, online security, e-commerce, protection of players' funds and game integrity to the California market.”