- The bill is designed to protect consumers and generate revenue for the state
- Moak also believes the regulation of online gambling will create jobs for the state,
A Mississippi representative wants to give internet gaming another chance.
Less than a year after iGaming legislation failed, State Rep. Bobby Moak re-introduced a nearly identical bill that would make real-money online poker legal in the Magnolia State.
Mississippi is home to southern gambling hubs like Tunica and Biloxi, and the proposed law would regulate internet casinos and “inhibit underage wagering and otherwise protect vulnerable individuals, ensure that the games offered through the Internet are fair and safe.”
Moak’s proposal also suggests that legalized online gambling in Mississippi would “create jobs and economic development” in Mississippi while preventing taxes and revenue fees from being collected by “illegal operators.”
Regulation would “ensure that only those persons of good character and fitness, who meet strict criteria set forth in law and regulations, are suitable to facilitate and conduct online gaming activities,” the proposed bill states.
Unregulated online gambling “raises significant concerns for the protection of our citizens.”
Like the bill that died last year in committee, Moak’s 2013 proposal would require operators to apply for five-year licenses through the Mississippi Gaming Commission, and players must be at least 21 years old and sign a wagering agreement.
Nevada and Delaware have legalized online poker, while lawmakers in New Jersey, California and Iowa are working toward legalization.
In Nevada, the governor also is pushing for an amendment that would allow for interstate poker in other areas where it is made legal.