When the Gambling Commission decided 3-2 to increase the wager limit to $400, cardroom operators in Washington State won a big win. This $100 rise is the first pay boost in 14 years and comes after protracted discussions and open forums.
Maverick Gaming Initiates the Petition
The petition for the hike was spearheaded by Maverick Gaming, the owner and manager of 23 licensed cardrooms in Washington. The business aimed to level the playing field with tribal casinos, where the wager limit is greater, and address growing operational expenses brought on by inflation.
Eric Persson, CEO of Maverick Gaming, expressed delight with the result, stating, “Today’s vote is evidence of the professional engagement of our entire team with our regulators.”
Tribes Oppose the Change
Tribes in Washington State that are federally recognized and have casinos with $500 and higher wager minimums were adamantly opposed to the hike. They claimed that the greater wager limit would violate a state legislation that requires “social card games” to primarily enhance the sale of food and beverages.
The discussion was a reflection of the continuing conflict between Maverick Gaming, which now operates 23 cardrooms in the state, and tribal operators.
The commissioners’ opinions to the decision to increase the betting limit to $400 were conflicting. While some were against it, arguing that it went against lawmakers’ initial goals for such facilities, others were in favor, admitting the aim for cardrooms to compete in the market.
A History of Wager Limit Increases
The wager limit was first established at $25 when house-banked cardrooms became authorized in 1997. It has had multiple rises over time, the most recent of which brought it to $300 in 2009. 31 days after the new regulation is submitted to the code revisionist, the $400 limit will become effective.
In addition to pushing for the increase in the wager limit, Maverick Gaming previously tried to expand its company by bringing sports betting to cardrooms. Sports betting, however, is only permitted in tribal casinos. Maverick Gaming is now contesting the state’s sports betting agreements with the tribes in federal court as a consequence.
The All-Star Lanes & Casino in Silverdale is Maverick Gaming’s newest addition to its network of 23 cardrooms operating in Washington. Table games, poker, bowling lanes, an arcade, a restaurant, drive-thru espresso, and full-service dining are just a few of the entertainment options available at the location.
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