Fahrenkopf cites WSOP as a reason for Internet poker legalization

American Gaming Association President Frank Fahrenkopf Jr. is using Sunday’s kickoff of the World Series of Poker’s Main Event final table as another reason why Congress should support the legalization and regulation of online poker.

Fahrenkopf said millions of Americans plan to watch the action on ESPN2. However, those same citizens take chances when they log on to play Internet poker with unregulated websites.

“They face a Wild West atmosphere with little or no regulation and where law enforcement has limited ability to protect them,” Fahrenkopf said. “Congress must act to approve legislation allowing states to license and regulate online poker so Americans who play online poker can do so safely with responsible, law-abiding operators.”

The American Gaming Association supports the establishment of federal guidelines that would keep minors from gambling online, prevent fraud and money laundering, address problem gambling and ensure players aren’t being cheated. 

“American consumers deserve to be protected,” Fahrenkopf said.  “Licensing and regulation of online poker in the U.S is the only way to do it.”