The Nevada Gaming Commission has been looking into issuing online casino licenses since June of last year. But the commission isn't the only official body that's got an eye on the Net.
Las Vegas city council has voted 6-1 in favor of exploring the idea of using the city seal to endorse Internet wagering sites - in exchange for a fee. And even though the idea may sound questionable, it's hard for some people to ignore the benefits.
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman told the Las Vegas Review-Journal that it is "imperative to explore the potential of raising billions of dollars" through these types of partnerships. He further noted that the city "would be derelict not to explore [this option]."
One of the key issues that will be addressed is whether these types of partnerships are legal. Councilwoman Lynette Boggs McDonald voted against the measure for that reason, noting the U.S. Department of Justice's prohibition on online gambling.
"The bottom-line principle for me is that this is illegal in the U. S., and I personally will not be party to directing our staff to pursue illegal activities," said McDonald.
Dennis Neilander, chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, also expressed concerns about the plan. Neilander told the Associated Press that he wasn't sure if it was possible to block certain players or prevent minors from wagering online.
The idea of selling the city's seal of approval to an online casino isn't a new one. Vegas city council was involved in discussions with the owners of VegasOne.com about the city's endorsement of an Australian-based casino for nearly a year and a half.
Goodman supported the plan but the deal fell through when city councilors couldn't agree on whether to support the proposal. Under the proposed deal, the casino operator would have paid the city 25 percent of the net profits and 5 percent of the casino's gross revenue.
Council is expecting a report on the matter in the first week of February 2002.
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