US Congressman Comes Out Strong Against Online Casino Ban

27 Mar 2007

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), most commonly known as the anti-online casino, has probably been attacked from every direction possible. Gamblers from all around the US, along with gambling and law experts, have tried to explain why the law is damaging and not effective. It seems now as the "anti UIGEA camp" will receive some support from an unexpected place. According to a recent report in the Financial Times, US Congressman Barney Frank is about to launch an offensive against the law, which he calls "one of the stupidest laws ever passed".

Spokesmen for Frank, who is chairman of the powerful House financial services committee, confirmed the facts but also stated that the strategy and tactics have yet to be worked out. “I am working on legislation to cut back on this online casino thing. I really think it’s preposterous” added Frank himself, who strongly opposed the anti-online casino legislation during its passage. As a result of the Congressman's declaration, several shares in online gambling companies at the London market strongly rose.

Even though there's no doubt that this latest development is great news for the US online casino industry, it is far from clear that the lawmakers would have enough support to pass any meaningful legislation. According to the newspaper, the mid-term Democratic victory in the US Congress brought some hope to the online gambling community, due to the fact that John Conyers, chairman of the House judiciary committee, is also considered sympathetic to the online casino industry. Nevertheless, it may not be enough for reversing the situation.

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