For Immediate Release
July 11, 2006

Congressman Pitts Votes to Enforce Online Gambling Laws

Washington – Congressman Joe Pitts (R, PA-16) today voted in favor of H.R. 4411, The Internet Gambling Prohibition and Enforcement Act.  The bill, which passed in the House by a vote of 317-93, protects children from the dangers of online gambling and provides effective enforcement mechanisms for current law prohibiting gambling online.

“It’s time we enforce the law when it comes to online gambling,” Congressman Pitts said.  “Illegal Internet gambling endangers our children and destroys lives and families.  Age requirements are easily sidestepped, and credit card payment systems promote addiction, bankruptcy, and crime.  Today’s action in the House clarifies existing law, provides new mechanisms to cut off payments to illegal online gambling websites, and authorizes penalties against those who facilitate online gambling.  It helps ensure that the law is enforced, and our families are protected.”

Background

Americans currently spend a staggering $5.9 billion each year on Internet gambling.  Because of the ready availability of Internet gambling sites, many Americans are unaware that these sites are in fact illegal.  Gambling websites endanger children, who can easily access the sites; encourage addiction; and provide a front for money laundering, drug trafficking, and even terrorist financing.

H.R. 4411, the Internet Gambling Prohibition and Enforcement Act, cracks down on Internet gambling in four ways.  First, the bill clears up ambiguities in the Wire Act and clarifies that the provisions of the law (which bans the use of wire communication facilities to transfer bets or wagers or related money) apply to Internet gambling.  It also increases the maximum penalty for Wire Act violations.  Second, the bill cuts off these sites’ funding sources by regulating payment systems.  Third, the bill authorizes law enforcement to pursue injunctions against persons or businesses that aid Internet gambling.  Finally, the legislation supports international efforts to combat illegal gambling and money laundering.  

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