Could 2012 be the year that we see individual states adopt regulations that would open the door to intrastate online poker?  Many analysts believe that the ground is ripe for this scenario to become a reality, despite the fact that less than a year ago, on Black Friday, the Department of Justice swooped down on top internet poker sites such as Poker Stars and halted their operations in the United States.

Just before Christmas, when the DOJ issued an opinion that the archaic Wire Act of 1961 didn’t incorporate online poker and gambling (besides sports betting), state authorities got their thinking caps on and started checking out how they could use this change of heart to their advantage.

Many states are on the brink of introducing regulations that would see the fruition of internet poker. Nevada, for instance, has already passed legislation that allows for operators to apply for online poker licenses.  This state seems to be at the forefront when it comes to progress made in the introduction of online poker, but others are definitely not far behind, including New Jersey. Analysts believe that the race has begun between states and it won’t be long before we see various states introducing different rules, standards and tax regimes.

On the other hand, the federal government isn’t crazy about the idea of having an assortment of states with different regulations, and believe that one umbrella law would be better for consumer protection and taxation purposes.  The DOJ’s opinion could be the catalyst needed to get the Federal government to pass legislation, although the administration may get cold feet with it being an election year.

SO, could online come to US states this year? We’ll have to wait and see.