‘m surprised that not more has been said about the proposed legislation to ban all internet gambling. From what I’ve read, there are more than enough votes for this bill, but there is a disagreement about whether horse racing should also be included. The dispute about horse racing is the only thing right now preventing this legislation from being passed. The internet gambling ban will force ISPs (internet service providers) to restrict our ability to access gambling sites. My question is will this kill all internet gambling– whether it be sports books or poker sites–or are there
ways around such restrictions?
Answer 1:
Assuming you refer to S.692 aka HR3125 (the Kyl Bill, aka The Internet Gaming Prohibition Act of 2000), this is not as devastating to thee industry, though this is the one in more immediate danger of becoming a law. This act applies only to the online casinos, and has no penalties or restrictions against the act of gambling online itself — it merely restricts the right to operate a gambling business online. Of more dire consequences if passed is HR4419, aka “The Internet Gaming Funding Prohibition Act”, introduced May 10th. This bill applies to the gamblers themselves, somewhat indirectly. It makes it illegal to use a credit card, OR a check, OR any legal tender, to buy cyber-chips at an online casino! S.692 has passed the Senate, and could be voted on in the House this week. Tell your Congressman to vote no. HR4419 has been referred to committee (Banking and Finance), and is not scheduled for any House vote soon. If your Congressman is on the Banking and Finance committee, tell them to oppose HR4419.
Answer 2:
You are reading out of date reports. As I understand it, the Kyl bill makes it illegal for a US citizen to operate an online wagering site. What I don’t understand is why would this be needed? Haven’t they already prosecuted Americans for operating offshore sports betting facilities?
Answer 3:
Yes, and then they lost at federal appeals. Some Dallas bookies were convicted of operating a gambling website out of the Bahamas. Monies were not collected in the US; they were sent to Canada for deposit in a bank there and drawn on by the Bahama book (much as Planet Poker works). The Fed Circuit Court said that the deposit of money was not a bet, they overturned the convictions.
