Ex-Lobbyist Jack Abramoff Skeptical of Federal Online Gaming Bill Despite Recent DOJ RulingSays Chances Aren't Good in Reuters Interview |
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Few know the power of lobbying on Capitol Hill like Jack Abramoff — who at one time represented tribal casino interests and was paid to fight against efforts to make online gaming illegal.
Released from prison in 2010 after serving more than three years for mail fraud and conspiracy, the infamous lobbyist, who recently penned a book about corruption, spoke to Reuters this week about online gaming in the country.
He expressed doubt over the possibility of a federal law to legalize the activity, despite the recent Justice Department clarification of the Interstate Wire Act of 1961.
“Moving legislation through the House and Senate is going to be very difficult,” he said. “It’s going to be extremely expensive for [online gaming proponents], and frankly the odds are against them.”
Legislative proposals currently remain stagnant in Congress. A hearing was held on the topic in November, but no formal action was taken. Regardless, Nevada is moving quickly toward an intrastate web-poker industry, and a handful of other states have also expressed interest.
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