New markets come in all sizes, whether they be the big new playgrounds of the United States, or according to recent news, tiny island nations like the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). According to local outlet Marianas Variety, the country’s House Committee on Gaming approved House Bill 21-31, which if it becomes a law, would allow online gambling in the tiny island nation.

Committee Chairman Ralph Yumul had previously delayed the bill to allow the Attorney General’s office to provide commentary on the law. Even with this vote to carry the bill forward, Yumul abstained, citing concerns raised by the Commonwealth Casino Commission (CCC). That group had previously asked the House to study gambling further before making it a reality.

CCC Chairman Juan Sablan and acting Executive Director Charlie Atalig wrote:

“The commission’s main concerns include issues of money laundering and problem gambling. With proper regulation, these issues can be addressed and mitigated, but this can only occur after study and the development of best practices. These best practices may not yet be in place.”