U.S. Online Gambling Legislation

Responses to Objections to Legalizing Online Gambling

The 2006 establishment of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act was an event that was looked on with disdain and dismay by many online gamblers, especially Internet poker players. Proponents of anti-gaming legislation have cited a number of reasons why online gambling is a danger. However, there are responses to almost every concern that anti-gaming activists have.

Online Gambling Complaint No. 1: Online Casinos Promote Problem Gambling

There is nothing to suggest that problem gamblers will not find some other place to gamble if they cannot do it online. The difference is that if these gamblers transact illegally, they may find that their lives are in danger and they will not have obvious access to help. In contrast, online gaming sites are designed so that players can restrict the amount they can deposit each week, assisting problem gamblers in their struggle. They can also find easy access to problem gambling help groups online.

Online Gambling Complaint No. 2: Online Casinos Promote Underage Gambling

While underage gambling may currently be a problem with online casinos, proper regulation can solve it. If online gambling is fully regulated by the government, technological safeguards can be established that will prevent underage players from logging on to play with real money without their parents’ knowledge.

Online Gambling Complaint No. 3: Online Casinos Suck Money Out of the Local Economy

This is all the more reason to legalize and regulate it. Online gaming is a multi-billion dollar industry. The tax revenue that would be gained through legalizing online poker and US online casinos could be a tremendous boost to the local economy and a goo d portion of that money could be earmarked towards helping problem gamblers.