March 23, 2012
The Honorable Harry Reid |
The Honorable Mitch McConnell |
The Honorable John Boehner |
The Honorable Nancy Pelosi |
Dear Majority Leader Reid, Senator McConnell, Speaker Boehner, and Representative Pelosi :
As governors, we are writing to express our interest in the ongoing discussion regarding the regulation of internet gaming in the United States. We appreciate your efforts to address the questions that arise around this issue.
The regulation of gaming is an issue that has historically been addressed by the states. States that have elected to authorize gaming derive significant revenues which support important programs for education, senior care, veterans’ services, and other good causes.
If Congress intends to preempt or otherwise alter states’ authority over gaming, we strongly urge that governors be a part of any and all decisions as to how gaming will continue to be regulated in the future. Regardless of whether governors are in favor of offering internet or any other form of gaming within their own state, decisions at the federal level should not be made in absence of state input.
As you consider the issue of internet gaming, we ask that you ensure that the states are able to participate in any continued discussions on this extremely important topic. Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Governor Dave Heineman Chair |
Governor Jack Markell |
