Nevada governor signs online gambling bill

Gov. Brian Sandoval (R-NV), a former chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission, signed legislation legalizing online gambling in Nevada, capping a dizzying day at the state legislature as lawmakers passed the bill through the Assembly and Senate as an emergency measure.

Nevada wanted to beat New Jersey, its East Coast casino rival, to the online gambling punch. Gov. Chris Christie (R-NJ) previously vetoed an online wagering bill but has indicated he may sign an amended version next week. Gov Sandoval and Nevada legislative leaders said it was important for Nevada to remain at the forefront of gambling regulation. AB114 authorizes Nevada to enter into compacts with other states to offer Internet poker. It sailed through both the Assembly and Senate on Thursday after a joint hearing before the two judiciary committees. Gambling regulators will now come up with regulations dictating compact parameters. AG Burnett, chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, said the state already has about 20 applications from various operators, equipment and software vendors to be licensed for online gambling.