Video: Poker players not ready to fold on Internet gambling law

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KENT, Wash.– Online gamblers are vowing not to fold after a King County Superior Court judge on Thursday upheld a state law that makes internet gambling a Felony, punishable by up to five years.

Poker players protesting outside the courthouse call that ridiculous.

"We're good people. I mean, we're trying to have some fun, engage in a game of skill," said gambler Andy Weber.

The law, signed in 2006, is a Class C felony, making it equal to torturing an animal or making threats against the governor. At the same time, games like the state lottery and taxable casinos remain legal.

Judge Mary Roberts upheld the law and rejected the argument that it is unconstitutional.

"The vast majority of Washington citizens have no objection whatsoever if their neighbor, co-worker, relative is playing poker on the internet from the privacy of their own home," said Lee Russo, attorney for Poker Players Alliance.

Officials at the state gambling commission who support the law say it was designed to stiffen penalties against the online casino operators and that nobody is planning to arrest gamblers. The commission wants people to realize that placing bets through unregulated, offshore casinos is far too risky.

"You don't know who's behind that screen. You don't know if the games are unfair or honest. You don't know if you will get paid your winnings," said Susan Arland, Washington State Gambling Commission. "Also, by disclosing information that should be secure, you could be the victim of identity theft or credit card fraud."

Opponents say the law is the stiffest in the nation and they do plan to appeal, but with only 30 percent of cases overturned on appeal, the odds are against them.