Editorial Supports U.S. Regulation
One would think that the United States would eventually cave to pressures from
not only the World Trade Organisation, but threats from specific powerful
countries have all asked the U.S. government to lift the ban on offshore online
casino transactions. After the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act
passed, countries like Antigua and Barbuda petitioned the injustice before the
WTO. And though the WTO ruled six months ago that the U.S. violated trade
agreements, the U.S. has still not complied with international requests.
And as the online casino ban continues, even newspapers in the U.S. are
beginning to campaign for the government to reassess its policy on offshore
internet gambling. An editorial that recently appeared in Newsday sided with
many concerned online casinos players and companies by voicing support for the
idea of licensing and regulating the industry. Bills like Senator Barney Franks
were lauded by the editorial author because it is definitely a step in the right
direction. The author writes, "Legislation introduced by Rep. Barney Frank
(D-Mass.) provides a good jumping-off point for debate in Congress."
The author went further with the editorial by even highlighting Antigua’s valid
claim that the U.S. unfairly bans offshore online casinos and gambling while
still allowing Fantasy Sports Leagues, online lottery tickets, and horserace
betting.
According to the Newsday article, "Antigua argued that by permitting some online
wagering while making it illegal for financial institutions to handle payments
for Internet casinos abroad, the United States impermissibly discriminates
against cyber-[online casinos]. Washington should respect the WTO ruling, permit
Internet casino gambling and do all it can to protect American consumers.”
Some in the industry are unsure if the Bush administration will ever allow
legislation that would neutralize the UIGEA to pass through into law – so others
are just willing to wait the year and a half until the Democrats come into power
and realign the U.S> with the rest of the world on this online casino issue.
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