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[The following is John "The Greek" Leontakianakos' opinion on H.R. 4777, otherwise known as the Internet Gambling Prohibition Act.]

I have done quite a bit of research on the matter over the last couple of months and wanted to share so of the findings with those of you that had made mention of the topic. There have been constant on going efforts, both domestically and abroad to regulate Internet gaming. For those of you that are not aware of this, Internet Gambling has been ILLEGAL in the US since 1998. So, it is difficult for one to image that is could be made “more illegal” then it now is. Nonetheless, there are those that still address the issue as if there are some new concerns regarding the Internet. Other than politicians drawing attention to themselves, it is of no consequence. The primary “fear cry” has been access by minors to such sites.

The primary concern was regarding wagering sites (sports books), and that effort was primarily backed by Las Vegas lobbyist as they are losing the bulk of that business. Secondly, online casinos were targeted as a player is engaged in play with the “house” and has a significant statistical disadvantage. Poker was hardly mentioned. In fact, several states have legalized Poker as it has been deemed a game of “skill” (when played properly) rather than a game of chance and players have the same statistical advantage on a wager, as they are wagering against each other, not the house. Below is a quote from our law makers regarding current views on such related gaming legislation:

The Internet Act, is problematic for three reasons. First, the federal government has neither the human nor technological resources to effectively enforce a ban on gambling. Second, the Internet Act’s effect of driving online gambling underground may increase the dangers of online gambling. Third, while the U.S. may have jurisdiction over some off-shore cyber-casinos, exercising jurisdiction offends principles of comity and sovereignty. In conclusion, the passage of the Internet Act would not eliminate online gambling and protect against the dangers of Internet gambling. Instead, its passage would drive online gambling underground and may even intensify the problems of Internet gambling. Law enforcement officials would not be able to enforce the Internet Act because inexpensive, sophisticated technology renders detection of online gambling difficult. Additionally, by attempting to prohibit online gambling on a global medium, the Internet Act would threaten principles of comity and subject the American view on other countries that permit online gambling. In sum, to more effectively address the problems of online gambling, we should implement a multifaceted scheme that encompasses government, parental, and school regulation of online gambling as well as the taxation of winnings.

There is actually something very positive that has resulted in the negative attention that Internet Gaming has received. Several countries and jurisdictions has set up licensing boards and have significantly increased regulation of Internet Gaming operations. Jurisdictions like UK, Canada, Malta, Antigua and Gibraltar have implemented very strict requirements for both operators and software developers. This increase in regulation insures fair play as well as security of funds for those that are engaged in the industry as well as “demand” anti-collusion software that prevents cheating. Thus, legitimate entities are able to blossom while illegitimate underground establishments are quickly run out of business. This legitimization of the sector is one of the primary reasons for its recent growth and popularity, and to think, we owe it all to camera happy politicians trying to make a name for themselves.

John “The Greek” Leontakianakos is a professional poker player with 27 years of experience. He is currently in the process of publishing a book on poker and runs his own website called JohnTheGreekPoker.