"The push to legalize Internet gambling in California is a special-interest debate, with no public interest at stake. Legislators should insist that the state find answers to the many questions that surround the idea before making any decisions. And no one should be under any illusion that online poker is a solution for the state's budget troubles.

The Legislature has two separate bills that would legalize Internet poker: SB 40, by Sen. Lou Correa, D-Santa Ana, specifically would address online poker. SB 45, by Sen. Rod Wright, D-Inglewood, also would allow other types of Internet gambling.

But the discussion is about who controls an emerging industry, and not about pressing public policy. The issue is the focus of a special-interest contest pitting a coalition of tribes and card clubs who back the idea against other tribes who say the proposals are unfair. The public has no compelling stake in a gambling industry turf war."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Poker rush? No (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 8/18)

Also Today:
American Indian tribes battle over online poker (California Watch 8/18)

Related Stories:
California tribes lobby lawmakers on Internet gambling measure (8/17)
Tribes in California divided on bills to authorize Internet gaming (7/13)