“Law enforcement authorities contend poker tournaments that are advertised, and held for profit and not for the benefit of a licensed charitable organization, are illegal.
No charges have been filed against Burns, who contends his poker tournaments are not illegal.
In an interview, Burns confirmed that he operated the card games but said he violated no state law. He contends that face-to-face poker tournaments are not illegal in Pennsylvania because poker is a game of skill, not chance.
“I like to play Texas Hold’em, and I enjoy holding Texas Hold’em tournaments. I do not believe my activities are illegal,” Burns said. “But I was more or less told I will be arrested.”
Tribune-Review (08/17/07)
Poker: The Skill Game 