Larson Signs on to Frank's Bill Legalizing Web Gambling

10/10/09 - The Hill - View Source

By Michael O'Brien

The fourth-highest-ranking member of the House has signed onto legislation to legalize and regulate online gambling.

House Democratic Caucus Chairman John Larson (D-Conn.) signed onto H.R. 2267 this past week, a bill introduced by Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-Mass.).

Online gambling was outlawed in a provision in the 2006 SAFE Port Act. The provision was inserted during a conference for the overall bill, which governs port safety.

That legislation's credited with driving many online gambling operations offshore, where they are unaffected by U.S. law.

Frank's bill, which has made him a bit of a darling within the gambling community, would allow online gambling in the U.S., but subject it to regulations, as well as taxes.

Larson, the fourth-ranking House Democrat, adds the highest profile support to the legislation among the 60 cosponsors of Frank's legislation.