Regulated online poker could have big payoff for state

By Mason City Globe Gazette

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When we first heard of Iowa legislators approving online poker, we thought back to the uproar caused by the TouchPlay machines.

Anti-gambling forces claimed they were like having easy-access slot machines in convenience stores, grocery stores and other retail outlets frequented by minors. And in 2006, the machines were unplugged.

So now comes a proposal that would authorize in-state online poker for Iowans - gambling right at home or wherever there's computer access.

We're not opposed to the idea; in fact, when all the facts are laid on the table, we think it could be a winner for the state and those who like to play the game.

The legislation, still alive in this session after being approved by the Senate State Government Committee last week, would provide for the creation of an intrastate Internet poker network. ...

Online poker is nothing new. It's estimated some 150,000 Iowans are currently playing games offered illegally by offshore and foreign companies.

Iowa would bring the game into a “safe and secure environment” for residents who wanted to play poker with other Iowans online, according to State Sen. Jeff Danielson, D-Waterloo.

Backers estimate making the games legal in Iowa and putting them under state regulation could generate $30 million to $35 million in tax revenue annually for the state. ...

Given huge amounts of money are going to illegal operations, and that gambling is already everywhere in Iowa in the form of scratch tickets or casinos, creating this in-state operation would seem to be a good way to stem illegal activity and create millions in tax revenue - not letting Iowa money end up in some foreign country.

We're willing to have the state give it a try. After all, if it doesn't work or gets out of hand, the state can always pull the plug like it did on TouchPlay.