NCLGS releases standards for online gambling regulation

The National Council of Legislators from Gaming States released its much-anticipated framework for standards in online gambling at state level Friday, presenting a guide for lawmakers in individual US states who are considering or intend to consider the legalisation of internet gambling.

The Council stresses that it has not taken a position on the question of legalisation, but wants to ensure that an effective system is in place for those that do allow intrastate Internet gaming, and that policy standards are in place to promote security and uniformity in states that may wish to form interstate Internet compacts.

Chairman James Waldman said: “As a group of legislators responsible for sound gaming public policy in our respective states, the Council recognizes the threats, as well as the possibilities, involved in new technology and Internet gaming.”

There is little that is innovative in the recommendations, which put forward proven and practical  guidelines for important elements such as player protection, strict investigation of potential licensees, technology to check who and where a player is, and safeguards to keep out under-aged and problem punters.

Waldman told the Associated Press news agency that the Council had consulted with New Jersey casino regulators for its report, which includes issues New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement has already had to deal with in launching online gambling last November.

These include geolocation, and the use or prohibition of credit cards to fund online betting accounts.

The framework includes warnings that in the United States online sports betting remains largely illegal, and suggests that states wishing to create bigger player pools through compacts with other states should ensure that the enabling legislation is designed in such a way that it is not necessary to first ask for federal approval.

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