Online Poker News Blog

Testimonies Are Made on the House Committee Regarding the Legalization of Online Poker

As reported by legal poker sites, U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade held a hearing on the future of online poker. Many advocates testified that Congress should regulate the industry. These representatives included speakers from the Poker Player’s Alliance, the American Gaming Association and Fairplay USA.

Former Senator Alfonse D’ Amato is the Chairman of the Poker Player’s Alliance (PPA). He said he is grateful that Congress has given players and participants in the industry the opportunity to voice their concerns. Amato said that players are frustrated that the government is restricting their freedom to play online poker and the Black Friday indictments have only made them more frustrated.

The National District Attorneys Association (NDAA) has also stated their support of the legislative movement. They stated that they are in support of online poker legislation and is encouraged by the stance of Tom Ridge, Louis Freeh and Fairplay USA. The NDAA said under the current policies, it is impossible to protect American consumers from the online poker operators who illegally open their doors to Americans.

Frank J. Fahrenkopf is the president and CEO of the American Gaming Association (AGA). Fahrenkopf made a statement that gave a detailed overview of the benefits of legalizing online poker. Fahrenkopf said that legalizing online poker would provide a number of benefits such as creating an additional 10,000 high-tech jobs and bringing in $2 billion in tax revenues each year. These tax revenues could go to fixing schools, building roads and providing medical care.

Many advocates clearly support the regulation of the online poker industry. The Subcommittee has been willing to let them have their say. The representatives have made it clear that the American people have overwhelming support for the online poker industry. The Committee may take their opinions under advisement as they make their decision.