During the 111th Congress, on August 6, 2009, Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) introduced the Internet Poker and Game of Skill Regulation, Consumer Protection, and Enforcement Act. This legislation would require the Secretary of the Treasury to license online gambling businesses and websites, including foreign-based online businesses that reach U.S. citizens. In addition, S. 1597 would require the Secretary to impose fees on the licensees to cover the costs associated with administrating the Act. The Secretary of the Treasury would regulate all licensed facilities, as well as create a national campaign to increase public awareness about pathological gambling. Finally, S. 1597 would authorize funding for treatment programs to help those diagnosed with pathological gambling. Similar legislation (H.R. 2267) was introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Barney Frank (D-MA).
S. 1597 was referred to the Senate Committee on Finance, where it was not acted upon during the 111th Congress. This legislation will have to be reintroduced in the new Congress in order to be considered. Should related legislation be considered by the full Senate in the 112th Congress, I will keep your views in mind. I have supported efforts in Massachusetts to expand gaming through the licensing of slot parlors and casinos, and I will give careful consideration to legislation regarding the expansion of internet gaming.
Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts with me. Should you have any additional questions or comments, please feel free to contact me or visit my website at http://www.scottbrown.senate.gov.
Sincerely,
Scott P. Brown
United States Senator