As States Move Toward Legalization, Congress Steps Up Pressure on Internet Gambling Forces
Washington, D.C.—The Coalition to Stop Internet Gambling today applauded Congress for taking seriously the threat of Internet gambling ahead of this afternoon’s hearing before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee of Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade.
“The many dangerous consequences of Internet gambling deserve a full public airing, and we praise the Subcommittee for taking an important first step in looking at the problem,” said former New York Gov. George Pataki (R-NY), former Sen. Blanche Lincoln (D-AR) and former Denver Mayor Wellington Webb in a joint statement. “We must take a pause to examine the social, law enforcement and economic consequences of Internet gambling before it spreads.
“Internet gambling — accessible anywhere and by anyone — is poised to impact the entire country if Congress doesn’t take a stand now. While it’s dressed up as fun and easy, Internet gambling can end up destroying lives, and ensnare our most vulnerable citizens with severe debt.
“Having gambling available 24/7 over the Internet presents a nightmare for parents already fending off graphic materials, predators roaming the Internet and other illegal or inappropriate content. In addition, law enforcement has even warned that Internet gambling can be used by criminal elements for fraud and money laundering.”
The Coalition to Stop Internet Gambling’s mission is to restore the long-standing federal ban on Internet gambling. It will engage the public and policymakers on the threat posed by Internet gambling.
For more information or to arrange interviews with any of the Coalition to Stop Internet Gambling National Co-Chairs, please contact Dan Wilson at dwilson@mercuryllc.com.