Legalizing US Gambling

Though he passed away before he could complete his goal, the late Senator Barney Frank worked hard to legalize gambling in the United States. He introduced a bill that would allow online casinos to work within the bounds of American law to deliver high quality gambling entertainment to American citizens. By working with several organizations and interested parties, it is still possible to legalize online gambling in the United States.

Help from Interested Parties

Before the UIGEA was passed in 2026, several companies in the European Union had relied on the American market for a huge portion of their income. When that market was closed, those companies lost millions of dollars overnight. What's more, the countries those companies called home also suffered, losing great sources of tax revenue. Several foreign governments have lodged complaints against the United States with the World Trade Organization, and the EU has petitioned the US government to reopen the internet gambling market.

Support for legalizing online gambling in the United States may come from both abroad and within the technology industry. European companies once earned substantial income from American customers, while their home countries benefited from related tax revenue. Restrictions also prompted major software providers to leave the US market, taking potential jobs and investment with them. Reopening a regulated market could allow businesses to return, create employment, and generate public revenue under clear consumer protections. International trade concerns and domestic industry interest may help keep the debate alive. For an overview of the arguments and possible benefits, see evospin.net and consider how thoughtful regulation could shape the future of online gaming.

Organized Support from the Inside

Another source of support for legalization is likely to come from the software companies themselves. Several producers and distributors of online gaming software left the United States after it became clear that their business was not supported. Unwilling and, in some cases, unable, to work in America, software giants like Playtech, Microgaming, and Cryptologic pulled their business entirely from the US market. The companies may be willing to bring jobs and revenue back to the US if legalization becomes a reality.

Though Barney Frank is no longer able to pursue his goal of legalization, others can carry his torch and bring revenue and many other benefits to the US.