Deval Patrick, a Massachusetts state Governor, is proposing legislation which includes heavy fines, and jail terms, for online gamblers.
The stealth proposal is part of some new online gambling legislation, and includes fines of up to $25,000 and jail terms of up to two years for offenders.
Governor Patrick's proposals have faced criticism from a number of other Massachusetts politicians, including fellow democrats. Barney Frank, a pro-online gambling champion representative, said "Why is gambling in a [bricks and mortar] casino OK, and gambling on the internet is not? He's making a big mistake. He's giving opponents an argument against him."
Frank has pioneered legislation to regulate and license online gambling in the US with a view to giving players the right of choice, and better protection.
Some believe that the provisions will make casino licenses in the state more lucrative by reducing competition from online operators.
Governor Patrick's spokespeople have so far failed to comment on the rationale behind the provisions, although a spokesman for the governor's chief gambling adviser said "Several of the provisions of the governor's proposed resort casinos bill seek to clarify laws relating to gaming in Massachusetts, including online gaming."
Email this page
Print this page
Bookmark with del.icio.us
