South Dakota Governor says no online gambling in our state

[Jeffiner99]

Another governor has weighed in on the Barney Frank bill. It seems South Dakotans would not be allowed to play online if this bill passes. Here is the email I received by the governor. (The intent of his message is clear although he seems to be confused about what opting out or opting in means). I am sure not going to correct him.

Dear xxxxx:

Thank you for your e-mail regarding H.R. 2046, proposed federal legislation that would regulate online gaming activities, and its potential impact on states.



It may surprise you to know the 2000 South Dakota State Legislature passed legislation, which was ultimately signed into law, prohibiting Internet gambling in our state. That bill, House Bill 1110, passed the state House of Representatives with only nine dissenting votes and was supported unanimously by the South Dakota Senate. At that time, I was a state legislator representing District 24, and voted favorably on this piece of legislation in both the Senate State Affairs Committee and on the Senate floor.



Regarding the state opt-out provision contained in H.R. 2046, because South Dakota already prohibits online gaming activities conducted by anyone other than the South Dakota Lottery or those entities governed by the South Dakota Gaming Commission, such an opt-out in our state would require the repeal of an entire chapter of state law as well.



I hope this information has helped to answer your questions. Thank you again for the e-mail.



Sincerely,

Mike Rounds



Lori Shangreaux
Executive Assistant to the Governor
Office of the Governor
500 East Capitol Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501-5070
605-773-3214
[email protected]