Washington D.C.(May 25, 2006) – The Poker Players Alliance (PPA), a grassroots organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the game, today voiced its opposition to two bills being considered by the House Judiciary Committee which would strip Americans from their ability to enjoy poker on the Internet.   The PPA also reaffirmed its support for legislation introduced yesterday, H.R. 5474, calling for a first of its kind congressional study of internet gambling.

“These prohibition bills promote an egregious intrusion into the personal affairs of ordinary Americans,” said Michael Bolcerek, president of the Poker Players Alliance.  “Poker is a unique American game, enjoyed by more than 70 million people in this country.  Simply, putting the word ‘Internet’ in front of poker should not criminalize this American tradition and the people who play it.  Let’s take a step in the right direction in favor of good public policy that assesses on-line poker in the 21st century, and not re-live the past mistakes of prohibition.”

Today, the committee will vote on H.R. 4411, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act and H.R. 4777, the Internet Gambling Prohibition Act.  Both bills deputize banks and Internet service providers (ISPs) to play the morality police for the federal government, by requiring that they monitor their customer’s financial transactions and restrict access to certain Web sites.    Ironically, while the bills outlaw Internet poker, they affirmatively legalize other forms of online gambling like horse racing, Internet lotteries and certain fantasy sports.

“If games of chance are given a free pass in this bill, it makes no sense that a skill game like poker should be banned.  Congress should not be picking online winners and losers,” said Michael Bolcerek.

Yesterday, the PPA applauded the introduction of legislation that would establish a federal commission to study online gambling.  H.R. 5474, the Internet Gambling Study Commission Act, would enable the government to examine the possibility of regulating and taxing online gambling, rather than an outright prohibition.

“A thorough review of this complex issue will undoubtedly reveal the vast benefits to U.S. regulation and taxation of the industry.  This is a thoughtful and reasoned approach that has the potential to mollify concerns over online gambling, not just sweep it under the rug, stated Bolcerek.

Author Contact Info: Poker Players Alliance