After eight years of failed attempts to pass online gambling, lawmakers are advancing the first proposal that would legalize online poker in California.
Members of the Assembly Government Organization Committee passed Assemblyman Adam Gray's Assembly Bill 2863 on an 18-0 vote Wednesday.
Tribal governments that fought previous attempts to regulate online poker are lining up behind the Merced Democrat's plan. It would send the first $57 million in fees to California's predominantly tribal-run horse racing industry.
Six tribes that previously opposed the bill took no position Wednesday.
The Coalition to Stop Internet Gambling says it would hurt families, provide a safe harbor for money laundering and drive consumers away from casinos.
Delaware, Nevada and New Jersey allow online gambling.
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