[oldbookguy]

letter to Jacoby and letter Editor (edited version to them)

Dear Mr. Jacoby,

I enjoyed you article concerning casinos and the hypocrisy surrounding them.

However, what I find even more incredulous is the position and lack of understanding concerning Internet Wagering.

Take for instance, the Massachusetts Lottery. In reading the FAQ’s, I read:
Can non-residents play the game? If so, how do they collect?
Yes, anyone 18 and over can purchase any Lottery product at any agent location. All players can collect their prizes at the same locations listed in question four. Additionally, Season Tickets can be purchased directly from any sales agent while in the state or from out of state, by calling l-800-222-TKTS. The ticket can be registered in the owner's name by completing and returning the registration form to the Lottery. Season Tickets are available for Megabucks, Mass Cash, Mega Millions and Cash Winfall.
Mega Millions Season Tickets CANNOT be purchased via phone from out of state.

Later it states:
Can I play the Massachusetts Lottery on the internet?

The Massachusetts State Lottery adheres to the federal law, the Wire Communications Act of 1961, which prohibits the use of wire communication facilities (telephone lines)<emphasis added> for interstate or foreign gambling purposes. The use of telephone wires in internet transmission is defined under that law and therefore it is unlawful for the Lottery to offer its games for sale on-line.
Excuse me, purchasing on the telephone is a ‘wire transmission faculity’ is it not, so is there a difference or just a prejudice against the Internet?

Now to the REAL look. Located in Newton Ma. Is a company, Worldwinner.com that offers on the INTERNET legal wagering in the United states and World Wide and yes, to residents of Ma. And the U. S.
They offer games marketed as ‘skill’ games such as hearts, solitaire, spades, free cell, Children’s video games and more.
So, why the prejudice my Ma. And other states concerning your local lottery and other games such as poker on the internet.
The state is able to effectivly regulate and collect taxes from these games.

obg