Just a couple of weeks ago we reported that the Nevada Gaming Control Board (GCB) gave their thumbs up recommendation that MGM Resorts International be allowed to purchase an interactive gaming license in that state. That is the first step for companies who wish to virtually shuffle up and deal poker in Nevada, and then action moves on to a vote by the Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC). If that regulatory body then approves the company as well, a license can be purchased, allowing a company like MGM Resorts International to become one of the first in the nation to offer legalized online poker.

With a sterling reputation in The Silver State and decades of experience running brick-and-mortar casinos, the NGC mirrored the decision of the GCB, and granted MGM a license last week. The next step for MGM or any other company which receives an interactive gaming license in the state of Nevada is to present their online poker room software to Nevada’s game testing labs. Once that software is approved, and safeguards protecting the state’s residents are confirmed, online poker play can commence.

The NGC also awarded USA friendly online poker licenses to the CAMS and Z4Poker companies. Former Nevada Senator and current Gaming Commissioner Randolph Townsend made a point to announce at the licensing hearing that, “Your (CAMS’) business is important to us. The issues you deal with are important to [gaming] providers and to us.” CAMS and Z4Poker are relatively small companies when compared to MGM Resorts International, and by calling out these two relatively minor companies as important bodes well for other small firms hoping to cash in on the multibillion-dollar a year online poker industry in Nevada.

As soon as MGM received the approval from the GCB, they were considered a shoe in for a license thanks to their long-standing tradition of providing top-notch, land-based casino entertainment. However, there was almost a hitch in what seemed like an all but guaranteed approval after the arrest of the Co-Chief Executive Officer of Bwin. Bwin has a current relationship with MGM Resorts, and the NGC took their time performing due diligence in their investigation of the matter. No files were charged, and the explanations regarding the relationships between the two parties were evidently given in a satisfactory manner to appease the Gaming Commission.

Tony Alamo is an NGC board member, and he stated that he has “warm and fuzzy feelings” for MGM Resorts, and he and his fellow board members were more than satisfied with the relationship explanation they received. In related news, Bwin has been approved by the GCB for an interactive online poker license, but this recent misstep might make it difficult for the NGC to now to grant their approval. What is clear is that three more companies are bellying up to the virtual table in Nevada, and actual online poker play in that state gets closer every day.