The Poker Players Alliance (PPA), today enthusiastically supports Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL) legislation that clarifies existing law and provides rightful protections for poker and other games of skill under both the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) and the WIRE Act of 1961.
"Congressman Wexler's bill is a positive development for the millions of American poker players who enjoy one of our nation's great pastimes," Senator Alfonse D'Amato, PPA Chairman of the Board. "Poker and other games of skill have fallen victim to bad public policy. Wexler's plan will give skill games the rightful protection they deserve and it will require the proper safeguards to protect children and those prone to abuse."
The online gambling ban that Congress passed last year, UIGEA, created confusion as to whether or not it applies to skill games such as poker, chess, bridge, and mah jong. The Wexler plan clarifies existing law by recognizing that skill games -- games where individuals compete against each other -- are separate and distinct forms of gaming and should be afforded protection under the law. In addition, the bill goes further than the UIGEA to require real safeguards for consumers. The plan requires that Web sites use the best age verification technologies, provide services for problem gamblers and abide by monetary controls to detect and stop money-laundering activities. Currently, no form of Internet gaming (i.e. horse racing, lotteries and fantasy sports) is subject to these types of regulations under current law.
"Congressman Wexler's legislation is necessary to provide equitable treatment for true games of intellect and competitions among individuals," said Senator D'Amato. "This skill based competition is the true spirit of the game, and the reason for its popularity whether it is played at the World Series of Poker, over the internet or at your kitchen table. Americans have played poker responsibly throughout our history and the Wexler bill will ensure that the game is enjoyed for years to come."
