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Future of Internet Gambling Bill Murky14 July 2000WASHINGTON -- July 14, 2000 – As reported by Associated Press: "Two key Republican lawmakers say a House bill to outlaw online casinos will not inadvertently expand other gambling on the Internet, but their assurances may not be enough to gain passage. "Skeptics maintain the legislation would help some gambling interests reach bettors through home computers, particularly horse racing. Those critics, plus others who say the bill would unfairly restrict state lotteries and unwisely regulate the Internet, could scuttle a movement that appeared to be gaining momentum when the Senate approved an Internet gambling bill last year. "The House bill is designed to stop the growth of Web sites that allow people to wager money on casino games through their home computer, regardless of whether casinos are legal in their state. A vote could come early next week. "…Rep. Chris Cannon, R-Utah, called the bill "a well-meaning attempt to regulate a pernicious vice (that) will actually allow gambling into America's homes." "Attempting to stem the criticism, two Republican congressmen this week agreed on additional language to specify the bill is not intended to permit activities that now are illegal. "…Some critics are loath to see any government regulation of the Internet, while others are unhappy that an exemption allowing sales of state lottery tickets over the Internet was removed by the House Judiciary Committee." |