American Gaming Association is split on decision
26th November, 2008
Casino companies may be feeling sorry for themselves as their earnings drop, but they are arguing like family at Christmas dinner over the proposed legalized internet gambling.
With more than 10 years of efforts coming close by individual casino companies and interest groups to develop lobbying strategies, the American Gaming Association is in a hurry to clarify its position on internet betting.
This rush comes as a new presidential administration that appears more open toward the prospect of legalized internet gambling prepares to take office.
MGM Mirage, Harrah’s Entertainment and International Game Technology, the groups largest members, support the legalization. They know for the association to present a unified front, members have to work through at least three viewpoints. While some members support federal regulation of internet gambling, others want the states to have the authority.
At the Global Gaming Expo held last week (the gaming industry’s largest conference), internet gambling experts concluded that the legalization of online poker would be more palatable to politicians and the public than legalizing other forms of internet gambling.
Casinos formed the American Gaming Association in 1995 in part to keep meddling federal regulators at bay, the prospects of federal oversight therefore worries some casino companies.
By Rommon
