Brennan Jr: Harry Reid Likely Eyeing Cyber Security Bill for Online Poker Measure

The Interactive Media Entertainment & Gaming Association (imega.org) founder Joe Brennan, Jr. believes that a reintroduced Cyber Security measure could be the vehicle for passing online poker legislation during the lame duck session. 

Brennan, Jr. tweeted: 

Bet this is the ‘must pass’ bill Reid will tack his poker bill to in Lame Duck; is it enough of a “must have” to work?

Brennan, Jr. has long touted the state-by-state approach to legalization and is currently assisting New Jersey in its efforts to bring sports wagering to that state. 

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is co-author of the online poker legislation along with Republican Senator from Arizona Jon Kyl.  Reid has indicated he would like the new Cyber Security bill brought up for a vote during the short lame duck session due to recent security threats, including those originating from within Iran. 

“Some of my colleagues have suggested that the president should delay further action to protect America from this threat until Congress can pass legislation. Secretary Panetta has made clear that inaction is not an option,” Reid said last week. “I will bring cybersecurity legislation back to the Senate floor when Congress returns in November. My colleagues who profess to understand the urgency of the threat will have one more chance to back their words with action, and work with us to pass this bill.”

Opposition to previous Cyber Security measures brought up earlier in the year was significant enough to shelve a Senate and companion House bill. 

A stand-alone Internet gambling bill is highly unlikely.  Reid has already said he is looking for a companion bill in which to attach his Web poker legislation. 

- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com