On June 2, 2011 the Poker Players Alliance (PPA) named Rich Muny Vice President of Player Relations.
According to the press release made available on scribd, Former Senator Alfonse D’Amato, chairman of the PPA, endorsed the move by stating:
Given the growing concerns within the poker community over their inability to play online poker in the U.S., now more than ever, American players need to know their voice is being heard and I believe Rich offers the level of expertise needed to reinforce their calls to action.
“LetsGambool,” a poster on 2+2 known for his constructive criticism of the PPA, praised Muny’s efforts but questioned what changes if any would arise from the appointment. Muny responded:
This is an organizational change that puts player relations, transparency, and communication clearly at the forefront of the PPA’s mission — especially as its being done at the VP level.
Highest on Muny’s agenda is communication with players. “PPA needs to show clear responsiveness to the needs of the player base and I will ensure that.” Muny posted on the 2+2 forums.
Muny continued to emphasize communication in his “second order of business” which is to help players understand the challenges that legislation and regulation present. The PPA has been criticized for not successfully facilitating the passage of legislation to regulate the industry in the US. Muny admitted, “PPA has not focused enough on sharing the tactics and goals of the fight. Without information, others will fill in the blanks. That’s not their fault … [that’s] on PPA.”
