Five More Co-Sponsors For Frank’s Bill

Gambling News - July 1, 2009 - Written by Renee

The support for H.R. 2267, the Internet Gambling Regulation Consumer Protection & Enforcement Act is rising. This bill was introduced by Massachusetts Democrat Barney Frank in order to legalize and regulate online gambling. This week five more Congressmen have signed up as co-sponsors to the bill. They are Rep. Neil Abercrombie of Hawaii, Rep. Earl Blumenauer of Oregon, Rep. Bill Foster of Illinois, Rep. Tim Ryan of Ohio and Rep. Jerrold Nadler of New York.

The total number of co-sponsors now stands at 40. Despite the talk of bipartisan support, the field is overwhelmingly loaded with politicians from the Democrat party. Of the 40 co-sponsors 36 are Democrats. There are three Republicans. Of these Peter King from New York is the original co-sponsor. The other two are Ronald Paul from Texas and Donald Young from Alaska. Gregorio Sablan from Northern Mariana Islands is an Independent.

The online poker industry has as much at stake in the bill as the online casino industry. The Poker Players Alliance (PPA) is solidly backing the bill. It is requesting those interested in online gambling, whether members of the PPA or not, to mail a standard letter to their Representatives from the PPA web site. The letter exhorts Representatives to co-sponsor and support the bill.

It says, “H.R. 2267 provides for sensible regulation of Internet gaming and puts the U.S. in charge of safeguarding its citizens. H.R. 2267 mandates rigorous safeguards against underage participation and protections for those with excessive gaming habits. This bill will also allow American gaming companies to participate in the world’s Internet gaming market, bringing needed jobs to America.”