State Senator Rod White has been one of the lawmakers that has been pushing Internet gambling regulations when it comes to online poker. Senator White has led the charge to regulate the industry in California, but now it appears those plans may be put on hold.

White has been indicted on eight counts, all having to do with his political career. In 2007, White is accused of changing his voter registration to run for the legislature. Perjury, voter fraud, and false declaration of candidacy are among the charges brought against the senator.

Senate bill 1485 was introduced by Wright and support was growing for the legislation that would have brought regulated online poker to California. Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has been a proponent of expanded gambling in the state, approving several compacts with American Indian tribes for additional casinos.

California has been a pioneer in a gambling industry that is now thriving throughout the US. Las Vegas and Atlantic City were once considered untouchable within the casino industry, but in recent years, California, Pennsylvania, and Florida have all expanded their gaming industries and are in position to topple New Jersey and Nevada.

As for Senator White, he pleaded not guilty on Thursday to the counts against him. His Senate seat for now may be safe, with a two-thirds vote needed to remove him from office. That will likely not happen with the way the legislature is currently comprised.

The outcome of the case, however, could change the future of Senate bill 1485 in California. With his attention on the upcoming legal battle, White will have to work overtime to ensure the bill receives the proper push that is needed to get it through the legislature, possibly even later this year.