Possible reversal in Washington State gambling law?

[The Judge]

Internet Gambling: Washington Rep Trying to Change Law
By: Thomas Jensen
January 29, 2007

Washington State Representative Chris Strow has authored House Bill 1243, to correct what Strow considers an inappropriate penalty for an activity responsible adults should be allowed to do in the privacy of their home. Under the state's 2006 internet gambling law, any online gambling currently conducted in the state is a Class C Felony, which is the same penalty for possessing child pornography.

In 2006, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act was signed into law by President George Bush, which makes online gambling conducted in the United States a Class C Felony.

Strow said, "While I do see the need for protecting our citizens from online gambling that may be scamming innocent victims, I do think that there is also a level of accountability, as an adult, to do as he or she chooses in his or her own home. Most certainly choosing to gamble, or play a game of skill such as poker, should not have been made a crime equivalent to possessing child pornography or threatening the Governor."

Other sponsors of the bill include Representatives Kirby, Upthegrove, B. Sullivan, Simpson, and Appleton. House Bill 1243 is currently awaiting a hearing in the House Commerce and Labor Committee.

Strow made a plea for state residents to call and write to the Chairman of the House Commerce and Labor Committee, Representative Steve Conway, to ask him to schedule a hearing for House Bill 1243. Rep. Steve Conway can be reached at (360) 786-7906 or Conway.steve@leg.wa.gov.