Internet Gambling Bill Amended

The River City Group has learned that a bill to repeal a measure prohibiting many forms of Internet gambling in the United States was in the process of being amended.  The bill - that HR 5767 - is co-sponsored by both Democrat Barney Frank and Republican Ron Paul.

In its current form, the bill, introduced in April, would prohibit the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve from "proposing, prescribing or implementing" any regulations under the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act.

"If enacted, the bill would strip the UIGEA of any practical effect," a source in Washington, D.C told River City and its iGaming News division., who is closely acquainted with the legislation told IGN in April.

Barney Frank has had his hands full in recent weeks dealing with the mortgage crisis - capped off by news of "sweat heart" deals made to at least two Democrats from the head of Countrywide Home Mortgages while Ron Paul officially ended his Presidential bid last week.

The news of the amendment also comes as Antigua has announced deadline of Friday to resolve their dispute over Internet gambling with the United States.  The US lost a landmark case with the World Trade Organization last year but has not yet fully abided by the decision handed down.

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Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher CCostigan@CostiganMedia.com

Originally published June 19, 2008 8:45 pm EST