The Benefits of Regulating Internet Poker and HR 2267

Millions of Americans play poker on the Internet



Internet poker is a worldwide phenomenon which has continued to grow for more than adecade. It is estimated that

approximately 10 to 15 million Americans play Internetpoker

with some regularity.



Internet poker has created thousands of online communities dedicated to discussing pokerplaying strategies, sharing news and information about poker and related games and otherforums of free and open expression.



Wagering on Internet poker is separate and distinct from traditional forms of casinogambling. In poker, individuals compete against each other based on their own skilllevels, and not the house (as in roulette, bingo, or sports wagering). This is truly a peer-to-peer, almost social networking, environment.

The U.S. has a responsibility to protect consumers who play online



Currently, companies that offer Internet poker are licensed, regulated and taxed in theirhome country jurisdictions. However, the

United States has failed to exercise oversightand control of Internet gaming

even though the U.S. represents the largest percentageof Internet poker players worldwide.



The millions of

Americans who play Internet games of skill will benefit greatly fromthe additional protections U.S. regulation

can provide. Moreover, licensing and

regulation will help guarantee the proper safeguards for our nation’s most vulnerable

populations.



HR 2267 establishes the needed licensing and regulatory framework for the UnitedStates to exercise appropriate control and oversight over Internet poker and othergaming on the Internet.



This oversight includes: Thorough vetting of potential licensees; mandatoryimplementation of technologies to

protect against underage gambling

and to monitorand

detect individuals with excessive gaming habits

; high standards to

thwart fraudand abuse

of customers; regulation to

prevent money laundering

; and, processes toprevent tax avoidance.