Justice Serves

2 August 2000
While HR 3125, the Internet Gambling Prohibition Act, has been left in limbo following its recent failure to escape the House, the Justice Department has introduced a prohibition bill of its own.

HR 5020, the "Comprehensive Internet Gambling Prohibition Act of 2000," was introduced July 27. Rep. John Conyers is sponsoring the bill in an effort to extend the Wire Wager Act (USC 18-1084) to prohibit Internet gambling. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Congress has since adjourned and no action can be taken on HR 5020 or HR 3125 until it reconvenes September 6.

Rep. Chris Cannon, a staunch gambling foe who voted against HR 3125 July 17, is co-sponsoring HR 5020. Cannon opposes HR 3125 because it would regulate the Internet, deputize Internet service providers and be unenforceable. "In Utah, we prohibit all forms of gambling within our borders, " Cannon said following the vote. "Although H.R. 3125 attempts to prohibit gambling over the Internet, in reality it allows some forms, such as horse and dog racing and jai alai. Under 3125, our Utah state law would be ignored and allow these exceptions to occur in Utah."

"I don't expect this fight to be over yet and I will continue to work to protect Utah state law and the evolution of the Internet," Cannon vowed. With HR 5020, he could potentially fulfill his goal.

Conyers voted against 3125 as well.

IGN will deliver feedback and fallout as this one unfolds.

Click here to view HR 5020. (Note, the bill number was not assigned when it was presented.)