Gambling Bills Before Congress

Three Internet gambling bills, pending in House committees, propose:

•The Skill Game Protection Act (H.R. 2610), sponsored by Rep. Robert Wexler (D-Fla.), would distinguish "games where success is predominantly determined by the skill of the players involved" — including poker, backgammon, bridge, chess and mahjong — from games of chance. Games of skill would not violate federal restrictions against "bets or wagers" online. The bill also would prohibit anyone under the age of 18 from playing any games for money online.

•The Internet Gambling Regulation and Enforcement Act of 2007 (H.R. 2046), proposed by Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.), would allow federal licensed online companies to accept wagers. The bill also would prohibit Internet gambling on professional sports.

•The Internet Gambling Regulation and Tax Enforcement Act of 2007 (H.R. 2607), proposed by Rep. Jim McDermott (D-Wash.), would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to regulate Internet gambling.

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