Cornyn (R-TX) and Hutchison (R-TX) responses.

[praeter]

[received 10/18]

Dear xxx:

Thank you for contacting me about Internet gambling. I appreciate having the benefit of your comments on this matter.

Internet gambling websites operate primarily from foreign countries, even though the majority of customers are Americans. However, placing bets online violates state law; to date no state has authorized people located in the state to place bets with offshore websites. Federal laws also reinforce state gambling laws. The Illegal Gambling Businesses Act, the Travel Act, and the Gambling Devices Transportation Act all transform violations of state gambling laws into federal crimes.

In addition, an amendment was added to H.R. 4954 (the Security and Accountability For Every Port Act) that would prevent the use of certain payment instruments, credit cards, and fund transfers for unlawful Internet gambling, and for other purposes. The Senate and House passed H.R. 4954, and President George W. Bush signed it into law (P.L. 109-347) on October 13, 2006.

I appreciate having the opportunity to represent the interests of Texans in the United States Senate, and you may be certain that I will keep your views in mind as the Senate considers relevant legislation. Thank you for taking the time to contact me.

Sincerely,

JOHN CORNYN
United States Senator

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[received 10/25]

Dear xxx:

Thank you for contacting me regarding gambling on the Internet. I welcome your thoughts and comments on this issue.

On October 13, 2006, President Bush signed into law the SAFE Port Act, Public Law 109-347, which includes a provision that prohibits gambling businesses from accepting checks, credit cards, and electronic transfers in connection with illegal Internet gambling. I voted for the comprehensive SAFE Port Act, which contains many other provisions that will protect the safety and security of our country, including an amendment I introduced that adds 1,000 new Customs and Border Protection agents.

I appreciate hearing from you and hope you will not hesitate to keep in touch on any issue of concern to you.


Sincerely,
Kay Bailey Hutchison