Internet Gambling Bill May Get a Sporting Chance – commentary

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The article focuses on Representative Barney Frank’s 2009 legislative efforts to legalize and regulate online gambling in the United States. Frank introduced the Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act, which would create a licensing and regulatory system managed by the U.S. Treasury Department. This would replace the existing prohibition under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006, which primarily restricted financial transactions related to online gambling.

Frank’s bill aimed to protect consumer freedoms, ensure fair play, and introduce safeguards against underage gambling and fraud. It also sought to uphold states’ rights to permit or ban online gambling within their jurisdictions. The bill explicitly excluded sports betting due to opposition from professional sports leagues like the NFL.

Supporters included Rep. Shelley Berkley, the Poker Players Alliance, and even Harrah’s Entertainment, a major brick-and-mortar casino operator, which marked a shift in the industry’s stance on online gambling. However, the bill faced formidable opposition, especially from conservative groups concerned about social harms and addiction. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s opposition also cast doubt on the bill’s chances in the Senate.

In summary, the article highlights a significant Congressional push to shift from banning to regulating online gambling, balancing concerns about consumer protection with economic opportunity and personal freedom.