Harry Reid's response to wizardofodds.com's Michael Shackelford (
http://wizardofodds.com/general/hr4411.html ):
July 17, 2006
Mr. Michael Shackelford
(address removed)
Las Vegas, Nevada
Dear Mr. Shackelford:
Thank you for contacting me to express your opposition to legislation that would restrict Internet gambling. I appreciate hearing from you.
As you may know, the House of Representatives passed the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (H.R. 4411) on July 11, 2006 by a 317-93 vote. Representative Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) and James Leach (R-IA) introduced this measure, which would make it illegal for financial institutions or intermediaries to process payments to offshore casinos through bettors' electronic funds, checks, debits and other e-wallet transactions. The bill also updates the Wire Act of 1961, which forbids the transmission of betting over telephone lines, to specifically outlaw online gambling through any communication network. Furthermore, the bill fosters U.S. cooperation with foreign governments to identify Internet gaming operations that are being used for money laundering and other criminal activities. Criminal penalties would increase from two to five years. It should be noted the House bill protects Nevada's right to regulate gambling on the state level.
As a former gaming regulator, I believe that the integrity of the gaming industry can only be maintained through strong regulation. I am very skeptical that current efforts to regulate Internet gaming would be successful due to the unique challenges posed by its elusive format. Please be assured that I will keep your views in mind should the Senate consider similar legislation.
Again, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with me. For more information about my work for Nevada, my role in the United States Senate Leadership, or to subscribe to regular e-mail updates on the issues that interest you, please visit my Web site at
http://reid.senate.gov. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
My best wishes to you.
Sincerely,
HARRY REID
United States Senator
HR:ss