California could be offering online poker

"...A proposed initiative to create a state-owned Internet poker game drew attention Tuesday from the existing gambling community -- including Indian casino tribes -- and support from independent experts.

"...California is the world's online poker capital, analysts said. The government is missing out by not legalizing, regulating and taxing it.

"Rose, a nationally known gambling expert, said that 'ultimately California is going to legalize Internet poker,' but said he is uncertain whether the new proposed initiative is the vehicle.

"The proposal would allow Indian casinos and other gambling establishments to set up revenue-sharing deals, which would serve as an incentive to wealthy tribes to gather voter signatures needed to put the measure on the February ballot..."