How is ClubWPT "Legal Poker"???

I'm trying to find out why ClubWPT is allowed to take players from Illinois. They say on their website it's because they follow the sweepstakes laws of that state. They also say they are a subscription service as well. Is it because they are considered a "club" with private membership?

Can anyone tell me how they can do this and stay legal.

Ray

I would imagine, that since they collect a monthly subscription which allows you to play in all the games, this gets around you having to "buy in" for each individual game that you want to play! Since you're playing with "imaginary" chips or tournament chips, it's not looked upon as gambling for real...even though you can win some cash prizes. I guess it's like zynga.com poker that you can play on Facebook.

Yeah, but isn't the "subscription" just like a buy-in??? How is sweepstakes term they use as their "out" to being legal, legal???


I should have asked them in the QOD? Maybe TPTB will see this post and respond.

Ray

North Carolina has a bunch of those "sweepstakes" parlous now. Never had interest in even driving by one. Just a matter of time before they disappear for a while until another loop hole is found. Likely a dispute over winnings leading to gun fire will get the ax swinging.

I was a very satisfied subscriber to Club WPT. It was just coincidental that the very day that the DOJ busted the online gambling sites, that Club WPT banned me from playing because I live in a state that does not allow Sweepstake type play.

Since that time, with the online sites shutdown, I've noticed that the membership for Club WPT has increased dramatically. Ironically I live in Oklahoma, that has over 100 casinos, para-mutual horse races and the lottery. Mississippi is another state that bans Club WPT.

As far as the legalities of using the term Sweepstake making it DOJ enforcement proof, I know nothing. You're limited to spending $20 bucks a month with a chance to win thousands. It's all tournament play, no cash ring games. I cashed in more than what I paid in dues. From my experience, it was legit.