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US Supreme Court rejects validation of poker as 'Game of skill'

The justices rejected an appeal from Lawrence DiCristina, who said his twice-a-week games of Texas Hold ‘em should not be covered by the federal Illegal Gambling Businesses Act. DiCristina said the law targets games of chance, like lotteries, slot machines and dice but not poker, which is a game of skill.

Bridge and Scrabble players weighed in on DiCristina’s behalf, worrying they could be targeted under a federal appeals court’s expansive interpretation of the law.

At least three justices, Elena Kagan, Antonin Scalia and Sonia Sotomayor, like to play poker.

Comment:
It is interesting to note here that in October 2013, the Indian High Court described Poker as a game of skill.

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