Barton Bill could help to legalize online gambling in the U.S.

Americans are divided when it comes to the issue of legalizing online poker. Nevada recently legalized online blackjack and other poker games within state lines, according to The Wall Street Journal, and other states are working to more clearly define laws surrounding the practice. On the federal level, online gambling discussions have not resulted in much progress in either direction, but one political official, Rep. Joe Barton, is proposing legislation to strengthen the Unlawful Intent Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006.

The Barton Bill, as it has come to be called, would enable individuals to gamble online with casinos and game providers located within the U.S., but it is unclear whether or not international gambling would be allowed, Poker News reports. Those who find the best online blackjack websites to be international ones may not have to worry. The publication reports that the bill doesn't specifically call for the practice to be allowed, but it doesn't have any language against international gambling, either.

The presidential elections could sway legislative action in any direction, depending on who winds up winning, according to a recent report by RealMoneyPoker.org. Which candidates do you think would approve such a bill? Does online gambling stand a chance at becoming legal in the U.S. if it would be regulated effectively?

Published on 2 February 2012