California has introduced legislation that would legalize the creation of an intrastate online poker network.

In the face of mounting debt, Senator Rod Wright introduced the bill that could generate millions in tax revenue. California’s massive debt is projected to be $19 billion at the end of the next fiscal year.

At face value, the bill seems a welcome relief from UIGEA, but online players in California may be shocked that the current version of the bill would make it illegal for them to play on other sites. Furthermore, players from other states would be barred from participating in any California run poker room.

In addition to the players, the government approved poker room would impact tribal brick and mortar casinos and poker room affiliates. Indian tribes are expected to oppose the proposed legislation because a legal online poker room would hurt casino revenue. Affiliates are worried that the passage of the bill in its current state would eliminate a large market, the state of California. Affiliate revenues are generated by players signing-up at various global brands.

Experts believe the bill will see many changes before it is fit to be signed into law. Currently, the Poker Player Alliance (PPA) is lobbying for player interests in Sacramento.

The bill is currently in the California State Senate. Stay tuned. FlopTurnRiver.com will bring you any important updates.