Pennsylvania Poker Update: Joining the Multi-State Market
By Keith Becker, PokerNews Ambassador
Published: October 29, 2024 | Reading Time: 5 minutes
Greetings, poker enthusiasts! I’m Keith Becker, your dedicated PokerNews Ambassador and proud Pennsylvania native, bringing you the latest and greatest in the Pennsylvania poker scene for October 2024. The landscape is buzzing with excitement, and I’m eager to share the highlights and significant developments in our state’s poker journey.
Joining the Merged Market
Let’s get right to the point—Pennsylvania has officially begun the process to join the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). This is a monumental step that many of us have been tirelessly advocating for, and it signifies a pivotal shift in the landscape of online poker across the United States.
For those unfamiliar with the MSIGA, it’s a multi-state compact that allows players from participating states—currently including Nevada, Delaware, Michigan, and New Jersey—to play together online. By joining this compact, Pennsylvania will have the opportunity to participate in shared liquidity, leading to bigger prize pools and enhanced player experiences across the board.
Image: Pennsylvania Poker News October Update
In my years as an advocate for this initiative, I have campaigned tirelessly through social media, letter-writing efforts, and collaborating with fellow players. I genuinely believe that this move will spur growth in our game, drawing in larger crowds and exciting promotions. My excitement is palpable!
A Swift Approval Process
The timeline for this transition remains somewhat uncertain. Despite my popular requests for insider information, I can assure you that the enthusiasm surrounding this move is undeniable. The timeline of events has been notably swift: Pennsylvania’s Governor Shapiro publicly approved the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) to start the entry process into MSIGA on October 10, and a vote took place just 13 days later, with unanimous support from all board members.
This rapid progression without any resistance—100% approval—speaks volumes about the collaborative spirit surrounding this initiative. Additionally, insights suggest that other states, like New Jersey, have paved the way for Pennsylvania. There’s palpable optimism about a seamless entry into shared online poker.
Welcome BetRivers
In this exhilarating period for Pennsylvania poker, the timing of BetRivers’ launch couldn’t be better. After conducting a successful soft launch that included player testing and bonuses, BetRivers is gearing up for its full-scale rollout. The platform promises unique features such as anonymized usernames to combat “bum-hunting,” exciting player rewards, and a built-in Heads-Up Display (HUD) called HeroIQ, available to all players to enhance their gaming experience. I can’t wait to stream their offerings—be sure to check me out!
Other Operator Highlights
Beyond BetRivers, our online poker scene is vibrant with activity. BetMGM PA recently wrapped up their Gridiron Classic Series, boasting over $300,000 in guarantees and offering custom jerseys as prizes—enviable swag that definitely caught my eye. I’ve also been enjoying the Eagle Series on Global Poker, noted for its impressive structures and remarkable trophies. If you’re not playing on Global Poker yet, you’re missing out on one of the most rewarding experiences available!
Also, PokerStars is set to return to the North American Poker Tour (NAPT) in Las Vegas from November 1-10, with over $4 million in payouts. There will be tons of festivities aside from the poker tables, including karaoke nights and exciting player parties—truly a feast for any poker lover!
PA Live Poker Update
On the live poker front, I’m thrilled to share that the Philly Live! Poker Room recently held an impressive $250 Women’s Event, awarding $4,000 to the winner, Caitlyn Arnwine. The event also featured a fantastic opportunity for the winner to travel to London for the PokerStars Women’s Winter Festival. With another package available at the upcoming NAPT Women’s Event, there’s no better time for women players to chase their dreams!
Poker in Pennsylvania is surging. As I wrap up this update, I want to extend my gratitude for your support in this dynamic community. Keep an eye on our PokerNews Pennsylvania page for further updates, and follow me on social media as we continue this journey together. I look forward to reconnecting next month with more exciting news!
Keith Becker is an accomplished poker player from Pennsylvania and a former member of PokerStars Team Pro Online. He has been a prominent figure in advocating for the inclusion of Pennsylvania in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement and actively streams poker on Twitch. Follow him on X/Twitter and Twitch to keep up with his latest endeavors.
