Whilst publicly quoted companies do not have the same flexibility,
for many of the private online gambling companies it's business as
usual in the US, at least for the immediate future, and a low profile
in terms of their intentions.
Full Tilt Poker posted an open letter to players on its website that
summarized the current events taking place in the U.S. and outlined
the measures it is taking to research and clarify the new legal situation,
assuring players that Full Tilt will remain open to U.S. players.
"We, like all online poker players, are dismayed and saddened
by these potential regulations, and are doing our best to determine
what these changes will mean to our customers. We are continuing to
study this legislation and, until our investigation is complete, believe
it would be wrong to comment on how these new rules will impact the
ability for players to transfer funds to and from Full Tilt Poker.
In the short term, we assure you that your online experience at Full Tilt Poker will not change. You will still be able to deposit and withdraw money from the site using the same methods and payment processors you have always used, and your money will remain completely safe and secure. We cannot predict how the online poker experience may change in the future, but we do not expect any immediate impact from the legislation, as the banking industry has 270 days to implement new rules after the bill is signed.
It is also important to note that, once signed, the new legislation will not criminalize individuals for playing poker online. Instead, the bill will eventually attempt to prevent the transfer of funds to online gaming. As poker is a game of skill rather than pure chance, we hope that it will not be affected by this new bill. Speculation aside, however, we will continue to work closely with organizations like the Poker Player's Alliance to lobby for an exemption for online poker and for your right to play a truly American game from the privacy of your own home and computer."
The letter confirms that Full Tilt will continue to work closely
with organizations like the Poker Player's Alliance to lobby for an
exemption for online poker and for the players' right to play a truly
American game from the privacy of their own home and computer.
The letter concludes: "While this last-minute congressional move
has undoubtedly caused concern among our players, we want to assure
you that Full Tilt Poker is legally regulated and licensed to offer
its services to anyone around the world and that your day-to-day experience
at the site will remain unchanged in all respects."
On the legislation sub forum of two plus two you can find a thread with the latest statements from the most important poker companies. The info is summarized below:
Staying in the US market:
True Poker, WSEX, Ultimate Bet, Poker.com, Absolute Poker, Bodog, Bugsy's Club, Planet Poker, Full Contact Poker, Cake Poker, JetSet Poker, Full Tilt Poker,
Not decided yet:
PokerStars, Paradise Poker, Poker Room, Titan Poker, Hollywood Poker.
Leaving the US market:
Party Poker, Pacific Poker (888), Cryptologic Poker, Boss Poker, Sun Poker, BetFred.