I'm not sure I have the stomach to carry through on what I'm about to say but it seems to me the Illinois law violates my right to work. I easily spend 30+ hours per week playing lame freerolls (when I can find a worthwhile tourney). I can't claim it as my day job since all my income comes from elsewhere... uh, because Internet poker's illegal here. As I understand it, the Fed law only makes bank transfers illegal but the State of Illinois has taken it upon themselves to decide that Internet gambling is illegal altogether. Furthermore, the premise used is protecting the public from themselves. I understand that there is a segment of the population that is prone to gambling addiction but I for one really don't want that kind of protection from my government. I want to play. I want to make money playing. Am I good enough? Well I can't say because the law has relegated me to bottom-of-the-barrel freeroll tourneys (which I have one a few). But real money? No, not really yet because I can't play real games.
Well there's more but to get to the point of the topic, I'm wondering if there are any lawyers and players willing to talk about a class action against the State of Illinois. I think the State policy is ludicrous and, frankly, is insulting. I know nothing in regards to whether legally it can be considered unconsitutional. However as an American, I am offended. I don't believe it's a case where plaintiffs could receive settlement which makes it tough for a lawyer to take it on and not much incentive for players. Not to mention the goliath we'd be up against. Illinois players that feel like me, are you interested in chipping in a couple bucks for lawyer fees? Lawyers who are players, are you willing for the "love of the game?"