Louisiana Lawmakers to consider iGaming Legislation

Since the beginning of 2014, there has been speculation and talk as to which states would be next to enter the online gambling market in the United States. After Nevada, Delaware and New Jersey launched iGaming options last year, other states began to take notice. State leaders across the US suggested that watching the outcome of the iGaming was important before moving forward. This made industry leader’s suspect 2014 may be void of any legislative moves in the online gambling category. However, it has now been reported that the state of Louisiana is considering online gaming legislation.

The announcement that Louisiana is considering legislation is very surprising as the state of one of just a few that has a ban on online gambling. State legislators are now considering creating a bill that would put safeguards in place for iGaming.

A recent report at NOLA.com/The Time Picayune stated that a presentation took place earlier this week with the Louisiana Legislature and included speakers:

Ronnie Jones Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman
Leonce Gautreaux Assistant Attorney General
Major Mike Noel Louisiana State Police Gaming Division

The presentation was heard by the House Administration of Criminal Justice Committee as well as the Senate Judiciary B Committee. During the presentation, state officials discussed several key points to online gaming including:

Geolocation Technology Accuracy
Tribal Gaming Interests Role In iGaming
Consumer Protection

It was in the late 1990s that online gambling was banned in the state after a law was passed that included gambling by computer. Jones noted during the meeting that illegal gaming is happening in the state and since players are taking part, they do so at their own risk. Players are taking part and it is not regulated, sanctioned by the government or taxed, according to Jones.

Jones continued by stating a main concern of unregulated game play is consumer protection. Jones noted that is a player was online and won $1,000; there is nothing a player could do if they were never paid.

• The study concluded a few key points as noted by NOLA.com:
• Louisiana citizens must have trust and confidence that both companies and individuals that are involved in iGaming are suitable
• Violations of law, regulations and criminal activity should be detected
• Specialized regulatory compliance should be in place to help ensure that the systems and programs are operational in a fair and consistent manner
• Underage and problem gambling should be avoided with safeguards

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