Cong. Waxman's response

[tipperdog]

In case anyone cares...

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Dear Mr. [Tipperdog]:

Thank you for letting me know of your opposition to H.R.
4411, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act. I
appreciate your taking the time to write.

Only gambling activities that are specifically authorized by
the states are legal. Because no state authorizes internet gaming, it
is currently illegal in the U.S. and most gaming websites are based
offshore. As a result, there has been no regulatory oversight of the
integrity of the games or gambling by minors. In addition, federal
law enforcement agencies have indicated that these sites are
vulnerable to being used for money laundering, terrorist financing,
and other criminal activities.

The House of Representatives passed H.R. 4411 on July 11,
2006 by a vote of 317-90. An amended version, which directs the
Treasury Department and Federal Reserve to outline procedures
financial institutions can use to stop gambling-related financial
transactions, passed the House and Senate and was signed into law
on October 13.
While we disagree on the merits of this bill, I appreciate
having the benefit of your perspective and will be sure to keep
your view in mind should Congress revisit this issue in the future.

To learn more about my work in Congress or register for
periodic e-mail updates, please visit my website at
www.house.gov/waxman.

Thank you again for writing, and please keep in touch on
issues of concern.

With kind regards, I am

Sincerely,

Henry A. Waxman
Member of Congress.