Online Gambling Laws
Unlike traditional land-based casinos, online casinos offer players a wider variety of betting products and an easy way to place wagers. Online casinos also offer players a number of tools that help moderate the games they play, as well as self-set spending limits.
Several states in the United States have legalized online gambling. Several other countries, such as Canada and the Netherlands, have restricted gambling online. The United Kingdom Gambling Commission is one example of an online gambling licensing authority.
Despite some legal restrictions, online gambling is growing fast. According to a Frost & Sullivan report, online gambling revenues surpassed $830 million in 1998. In addition, the number of gamblers has increased dramatically.
The United States has a long history of gambling regulation, but it is unclear whether the laws currently in place will remain the same. Several states are exploring online gaming legislation. There are also plans to create a new office of “gambling oversight” under the Treasury Department. In addition, the Justice Department recently announced that the Wire Act applies to all forms of Internet gambling. However, the Fifth Circuit disagreed with the Department’s interpretation.
The United States’ Department of Justice has also weighed in on the issue, announcing that it will enforce the Wire Act, even though it is not legally required. The department’s move has drawn criticism, with critics asserting that the move has no legal basis. However, the department’s move has also received support from industry groups. They argue that uniform standards will make expanding online gambling sites easier.