In its efforts to shut down illegally operating offshore online casinos, the American Gaming Association (AGA) has sought government assistance. The AGA recently contacted US Attorney General Merrick Garland to assist in tracking down those who are violating federal gaming laws. The association also reached out to Nevada Representative Dina Titus and Representative Guy Reschenthaler from Pennsylvania to develop additional legal solutions.
AGA President and CEO Bill Miller said shutting illegal online gaming websites is essential to protecting both players and the economy.
“Offshore gambling websites are a significant threat to consumer protections and the economic benefits legal gaming provides for communities across the country,” he said. “Eradicating these websites and all forms of illegal gambling is one of AGA’s top priorities.”
Miller went on to add that the AGA’s attempts to reach out to elected officials have resulted in a mutual “call to action.”
He commented: “After our initial outreach to the Department of Justice in April, our letter to Attorney General Garland demonstrates the broad interest in addressing illegal gaming.”
Miller concluded by acknowledging the contributions the government has made in helping the association combat illegal gambling.
“We are grateful to Gaming Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Titus and Reschenthaler for their leadership and the members who joined this call to action. Our country’s leaders are clearly and appropriately alarmed by the prevalence of offshore sportsbooks, and law enforcement must act to identify the worst actors, investigate and prosecute them,” Miller said.
“We look forward to continuing to work with allies on the Hill, sports leagues and the Department of Justice to prioritize robust enforcement that will protect Americans from the predatory illegal marketplace.”
Since the Supreme Court repealed PASPA in 2018, online gambling is currently available in 32 states, with 18 of those allowing for legal online sports wagering. Revenue derived from betting wagers has surpassed $100bn during the past four years since PASPA has been overturned, according to recent data.
According to the US Census Bureau, those jurisdictions represent more than 166.9 million people.
