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03/22/2006
CWA Warns of the Dangers of Internet Gambling WASHINGTON, March 21 -- Concerned Women for America (CWA) says that the increasing participation in Internet gambling, especially in light of the Men’s NCAA Basketball Tournament, is illegal and presents a danger to those who participate. “Internet gambling is an illegal and destructive activity,” said Lanier Swann, CWA’s Director of Government Relations. “People have bought into the lie that because it is done in the privacy of their own home, it is acceptable. Nothing could be further from the truth. “We are encouraged by measures in the House Financial Services Committee to crack down on online gambling,” said Swann. The Committee approved legislation sponsored by Rep. Jim Leach [R-Iowa] which prohibits the processing of payments for Internet gambling by banks and credit card companies. The bill also makes it a crime for a gambling business to accept any type of illegal gaming transaction. “This March Madness season is a time when many people are tempted to engage in this irresponsible ‘hobby.’ I encourage people to use wisdom and discernment before throwing their money down on their bracket of choice. It’s not ‘harmless’ to break the law. “In addition to being illegal, online gambling harms families and is a waste of money and time. Families suffer due to excessive credit card debt. People isolate themselves from their friends and family, and instead spend their time gambling in solitude. Rep. Leach’s bill is a lifeline for these suffering families and we urge Congress to pass this needed legislation. “The recent increase of online gambling must be stopped. People of all ages must realize that they are breaking the law every time they gamble money on the Internet. Hopefully basketball fans will enjoy the upcoming games and stick to rooting for their team and not illegally throwing down money through their computers.” Concerned Women for America (CWA) is the nation’s largest public policy women’s organization.
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