Senator Bill Larkin, who chairs the New York Senate Committee on Gaming and Wagering has called for hearings on the future of internet gambling in that state. Two hearing will be held in March to gather input while they "examine the role of the internet in the dissemination of gambling information in New York State."
Clearly, one of the spurs to this exploration is the parimutuel industry there which has said that they intend to get into internet wagering as a means of breathing new life into the industry. They use the existing legislation, which allows phone wagering, as a basis for their interpretation that they can do so.
As stated in a release put out by Senator Larkin, the purpose of the hearings is:
"to receive testimony on the current and future roles of the internet in the dissemination of gambling information and opportunities in New York State. Information sought by the committee includes but is not limited to:
- access to gambling by minors;
- whether or not Off Track Betting Corporations should be prohibited from offering on-line wagering services;
- New York State's interest in limiting gambling opportunities originating from other countries;
- the use of the internet in illegal gambling schemes and
- the role of state and federal regulation.
Two hearings will be held. One is at the Van Buren Hearing Room on the second floor of the Legislative Office Building in Albany, New York at 10 AM on March 12, 1997. The other will be 10 AM on March 20 at the New York State Office Bldg. (270 Broadway, 24th Floor) in New York City.
Oral testimony is limited to ten minutes and those wishing to testify should call (518) 455-2770 for a form to complete.