On July 1st, a new state law took effect that allows state licensed betting establishments to offer 'no-limit' Texas Hold'em and increase limits on other games. The law will allow for a 'no-limit' Hold'em with a maximum by in of $100.
 
In the past, poker players had lamented over the low limits that handicapped them, limiting their ability to use their skill and strategy at the game. Needless to say, the passing of this law is being received with enthusiasm in the poker world.

Most state officials seem to share this sentiment. Projections indicate that additional revenue is estimated at $2.1 million – a sum that Senate Democratic Leader Steven Geller of Cooper City feels has “potential for pari-mutual facilities, for the state, for tourism."

Director of Poker Operations at St. Johns Greyhound Park, Josh Zuckerman agrees, saying, "I'm extremely excited, we see potential for nothing but growth." Zuckerman said he is in the process of hiring 20 new dealers to handle the expected flood of new customers.

State Senator Mike Fasano R-New Richey, co-author of the bill said the change "does not signal a major change in his opposition to gambling," further saying, "I'm OK with the expansion of gambling as long as it is within pari-mutual facilities."

Still, there are some people who feel that this law is a step in the wrong direction. Senator Stephen Wise R-Jacksonville, one of 10 senators who voted against the bill, commented, "It's a slippery slope, it sends kids the wrong message."

State licensed poker rooms were introduced in 1996 and this is the first change in the state's playing rules since 2003.