New gambling bill just introduced...
lvrj.com.
Thursday, March 08, 2001
Copyright © Las Vegas Review-Journal
Internet gaming bill introduced
By ED VOGEL
DONREY CAPITAL BUREAU
CARSON CITY -- A Las Vegas assemblywoman introduced a bill Wednesday that would allow Nevada gaming regulators to license casinos to conduct Internet gaming.
Assemblywoman Merle Berman, R-Las Vegas, proposed Assembly Bill 296, which would permit the Nevada Gaming Commission to regulate interactive gaming. First commissioners must determine whether the computer betting systems can be operated in compliance with state laws.
Her proposal would require Internet gamers to pay state gaming taxes at the same rate as casinos. Only licensed casinos could participate in Internet gaming.
The bill also states the regulations must provide "reasonable assurance" that players are of lawful age and the games originate from areas with legal gaming.
"My bill is a vehicle to make people think about it and get the discussions going," Berman said. "The Gaming Control Board will decide when and if we are ready. We have done it the longest, and we do it the best."
Internet gaming is now illegal in the United States although there is wide speculation that legalization may be coming.
Besides Berman, New Jersey Assemblyman Anthony Impreveduto has introduced a bill to legalize Internet betting for licensed casinos in Atlantic City.
At a convention in January, Nevada Gaming Commission Chairman Brian Sandoval said he believes legalization is inevitable, but state regulators should wait on approving it until software is advanced enough to block minors and problem gamblers.
Last year Nevada gaming regulators forced Las Vegas-based American Wagering to divest itself of its Australia-based Internet gambling site because the site illegally accepted bets from an undercover agent in Nevada.
"I don't think it is a bill that will be embraced by everyone," Berman said.
Berman said there are phenomenal changes in technology to ensure minors who have access to credit cards cannot bet on the Internet.
"It's not, 'Hi, I'm here. Here's my credit card, I'm going to gamble,' " she added.
She said it is important for Nevada to have Internet gaming because of its growth around the world.
"I know we can do a good job on interactive gaming if we start small and learn how to do it," she said.
At least three Las Vegas gaming companies -- Park Place Entertainment, MGM Mirage and Harrah's -- have invested in technology firms developing equipment for secure Internet games.
Despite the U.S. ban, estimates are that revenues from Internet gambling reached $1.5 billion last year and will reach $6 billion in 2003. |
