Alabama Moves to Legalize Online Gambling

Submitted by Beth on Tue, 2010-02-16 at 20:29

Online gambling is a controversial topic in the US. Many of the country’s leaders are in favor of legalizing online gambling but just as many are opposed to it. So where does that leave the US in terms of online gambling? Is it something to look forward to or a luxury they will not be able to experience?

The current ban imposed by the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) is forcing online casino operators from the US to obtain their licenses in other countries and market internationally but not within their own borders. Any operator or bank caught violating the current ban will be faced with immediate charges that may lead to jail time. Currently, banks are forbidden to process any payments to or from an online casino, forcing players to find alternate payment options.

Alabama is one of the few states contesting the ban. State officials are aware of the economic benefits of legalized online gambling and have recently introduced a bill that, if passed, would legalize online gambling in the state. They would need 21 votes for the bill to be passed once it reaches the Senate and feel somewhat confident that they have done enough. If the bill is not passed, it can simply be reworked in order to meet any guidelines set by the Senate.