The Norwegian measure makes assisting online gambling sites, for example by processing transactions, a contravention of law.

The UIGEA was omitted two years ago by the U.S. Congress when it was hidden inside a bill supporting port security, allowing it to proceed without proper debate and investigation. Since then, the law has caused legitimate businesses within the online casino industry to withdraw from the U.S. market, while allowing a black market, during which consumers are helpless, to grow.

Now Norway has decided to emulate the United States, enacting its own version of the UIGEA. As within the US, outcry has come from every direction regarding implementation of this system. Bankers call the law unworkable and a competitive disadvantage, and civil libertarians are horrified.

Further, international law experts are concerned that the Norwegian law may violate or conflict with obligations the nation has to the eu Union. The Remote Gaming Alliance has already filed a complaint with the ecu Free Trade Association.

The Norwegian measure makes assisting online gambling sites, as an example by processing transactions, a contravention of law. Only the state-owned gambling services, including the lottery, are legal.

Once again, a central authority body tries to give protection to its competitive advantage throughout the harsh use of law, in place of looking to provide an effective project. If Norway desires to ensure government revenues, perhaps it may provide the most efficient and most varied gambling available, instead of legislate competition out of existence.

Published on December 12, 2008 by EdBradley

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