Politicians For and Against Online Poker, August 29, 2007

[flight2q]

Here is Jerry Moran, R-KS, on the F* list. He mentions poker and gambling separately, although it is clear from the second instance he does this that he views poker as lumped in with gambling. The weak part is that it seems he would only be willing to go so far as to consider a study bill. This is actually pretty good in a state where the prevailing view is that dinosaur museums are frauds. He is careful to say that UIGEA cuts off money outbound, so that is good detail.

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Dear flight2q:

Many Kansans play poker and gamble on the Internet. I appreciate you sharing with me your concerns about the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006.

The legislation that you referenced, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA), was signed into law by President Bush last year with the intention of strengthening security at our nation's ports. Included in this bill were provisions that cut off the flow of money to poker and other gambling websites. Congress is currently considering legislation that would provide for an analysis of this new law's impact. The Internet Gambling Study Act Internet Gambling Study Act [sic], H.R. 2140, requires the National Research Council to conduct a comprehensive study of Internet gambling, including the impact of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act on gambling in the United States. I will keep your thoughts in mind as Congress considers this legislation.

I am thankful for the opportunity Kansans have given me to try to make a difference for them in Washington, D.C. Any time you have suggestions on how I can do my job better, please let me know.

Very truly yours,
Jerry Moran