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June 15th 2006
L.A Times endorses Internet gambling
In a major coup for the online gambling industry the Los Angeles Times, one of the country’s best known and most respected newspapers has come out in support of the pastime.
In a damning editorial called “Legalize Online Gambling” the LA Times criticizes the legislation currently being examined on Capitol Hill which is attempting to outlaw online gambling.
The newspaper makes numerous insightful points about the downsides of such a course of action, beginning with the premise: “Doesn’t the federal government have better things to do than outlaw Internet betting on the Super Bowl?”
Acknowledging that supporters of the proposed legislation claim the bill aims to crack down on underage and problem gamblers the editorial points out the hypocrisy of that standpoint given that Congress has refused to treat horse racing in the same way (currently online betting on horse racing is legal and there are no plans for it to be outlawed).
Furthermore the newspaper poses the question: “Isn’t it a hallmark of a free society that we don't outlaw otherwise inoffensive vices simply because some people harm themselves?”
Echoing the sentiments of numerous supporters of the gambling industry, including the vast number of casual online poker players (80 percent of whom reside in the US), the article encourages Congress to change tack and legalize (and regulate) online gambling instead of trying to ban it.
Numerous high profile company executives and poker players, such as Sportingbet’s Nigel Payne and WSOP Champion Chris Ferguson, have said they would welcome federal regulation of the online industry. Michael Sullivan even said Sportingbet would be happier paying tax than operating under the current tax free offshore circumstances. From an industry worth an estimated $12 billion a year the federal government’s tax revenues would be huge, and the LA Times argues the money could be used to help problem gamblers and educate potential underage punters.
Furthermore, argues the editorial, the best way to prevent minors from gambling and to ensure the highest industry standards from the online companies themselves is to regulate the industry.
The LA Times should be commended for taking a public stand on this highly emotive subject. Their reasoned approach to the subject should help open the eyes of Congress to the counter-productive reality of outlawing a hobby enjoyed by millions of law-abiding Americans.
Let us hope they will not be left to stand alone in this battle.
Submitted: 15/06/2006 10:39:45
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