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by Otis

Two months ago, I wrote my Congressman. Today, I got an e-mail back. A form e-mail no less. Congratulations, Bob. You've tied yourself to an issue that makes sure you'll never pull me into your fold.

Dear Otis,

Thank you for contacting me about the Internet Gambling Prohibition and Enforcement Act (H.R. 4411). The explosion of internet gambling sites requires that restrictions be placed on gambling practices that violate the federal prohibition on interstate gambling transactions.

On November 18, 2005, Representative James Leach (R-IA) introduced H.R. 4411 to crack down on the growing problem of illegal, off shore gambling, as well as illegal gambling that crosses state lines using telephone lines and Internet technologies. On July 11, 2006, this bill passed the House floor by a bipartisan vote of 317 to 93. Representative Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) introduced H.R. 4777, identical to H.R. 4411, but in a different committee. Upon House passage of H.R. 4411, the two bills have been combined into one, and now the legislation awaits action in the Senate.

Every state holds the power to allow or prohibit gambling of any kind within the borders of that state. The problem with internet gambling is that companies operate their customer service and financial operations from foreign locations. The Internet Gambling Prohibition and Enforcement Act will bring the current ban against interstate gambling in line with new technologies. That is why I support H.R. 4411 and why I became a cosponsor.

Thank you again for contacting me. Please visit the Fourth District Web site (www.inglis.house.gov/) for more information or to post and read comments on today's top issues.

Best regards,

Bob Inglis

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