Self-Interest Shown by Some Who Oppose Online Gambling Bill

May 18, 2009 | News Category: Gaming Law

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There are those that are for Barney Frank's bill, which proposes the legalization and regulation of online gambling, and those that are against Barney Frank's bill. There has been support from unexpected places, and a lack of support from some who are involved with online gambling themselves.

Many of those who oppose the legalization and regulation of online gambling cite the reason for their opposition as one of concern that they worry about the incidences of problem gambling increasing. Joseph Alongi is one of those who hypocritically opposes the bills proposed by Barney Frank.

Alongi, who describes himself as a former gambler, has said that the potential social cost that could result is too high to pay for legalized online casinos. He said "Although the revenue to individual states is tempting, the harsh reality of gambling addiction is the insidious way it destroys lives and ruins families. The desperation of the current economy has given gambling a renewed appeal." Alongi feels that legislators are trying to capitalize on the hardship that is being experienced due to the current economy.

Alongi goes on to explain about the website he runs called Bet Against Me. He said "I created BetAgainstMe.com as a safe way to get your gambling fix without losing your house, your family and your dignity." The Bet Against Me site is free for those wishing to use it. Players begin with a set amount of fantasy cash each week, which they use for betting. They do not bet with their own money, however, those players that make the most profit from their fantasy cash on either a daily, weekly or monthly basis, win prizes. The site makes its money off advertising.

There are those of the opinion that if the Frank bill goes through, then BetAgainstMe.com will have far fewer players going to their site since they will be able to gamble legally elsewhere with the possibility of winning more money. BetAgainstMe.com has been in operation because they have managed to find loopholes in the laws that allow them to operate.

While Alongi feels that his site is saving potential problem gamblers from ending up with many social problems and huge financial debts, others feel that it might be the beginning of gambling addiction because it gets people hooked on gambling with little or no consequences because they are not playing with their own money. It could build up the confidence of players who may try and make more money in the gambling world that operates using free money. This could be a disaster for some players.

The recent study done at Harvard shows that online gambling is less addictive than land-based gambling, and has a lower level of problem gambling associated with it than land-based gambling.