31 May 2006
What would you prefer, playing at an internationally-operated online casino, or one that is owned and operated by a US land-based casino firm? If you are a US online casino fan, chances are you are waiting for a casino such as the Bellagio to open an online casino. Considering current trends in the US, this may come sooner than most players think. Until recently, land-based casino groups located within the US have been lobbying against the online casino, claiming that it will bring down the profits in brick and mortar venues.
However, these land-based firms have since changed their minds, hoping that they will get a piece of the online casino action. Why? Let's face it, the online casino industry is predicted to bring upwards of $20 billion for 2006. That's a lot of money, and when you consider the fact that a majority of online casino gamblers come from the US, it is money that groups such as Harrahs' can claim as their very own.
Currently in the US online casino operation is considered illegal due to the 1961 Wire Act. Land-based casino groups are attempted to change these laws, and moreover, keep the government from creating laws that will make the online casino illegal all together. These firms are lobbying for the online casino, claiming that legalization will help increase regulation as well as bring in more gambling tax dollars into the US government. Hopefully, these land-based groups will succeed in their tasks and the US will change current legislation to allow for the owning and operation of online casinos within the US.
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