Confusion appears to be the main course of the day regarding online casino gambling oversight, both in Europe as well as in the United States.  The European Union continues to operate in a state of confusion and uncertainty as member states send out mixed messages regarding their allegiance to the rules and regulation of online casino gambling, as laid out by the Union’s governance.

Michael Barnier, the new Internal Market Commissioner, has stated recently that he is acutely aware of these difficulties, and will attempt to sort out these problems, so that the commission will operate in a more efficient manner.  Malta, a hotbed for online gambling operators, is a proponent of regulated and licensed online gambling operations and is watching the activities of the European Union with steadfast vigilance.  Malta is determined to point out any violations of the free ecommerce trade agreements on the part the European members. 

France and Portugal are two prime examples of European Union members creating confusion for the commission.  Portugal was given permission by the European Court of Justice to retain its monopoly on online casino gambling within its jurisdiction, which is contrary to the rules of the European Union commission.  France is also determined to maintain its stranglehold on online casino gambling within its borders. 

These two examples are contraindicative of recent E.U. rulings, which justified certain online gambling restrictions, but did not extend to the member states more freedom with the online casino gambling regulations.  Barnier has made it clear that there will be an investigation of the differences in regulations, and adjust policies, based on the findings.  These findings will allow for a more structured regulation and ultimate clarity regarding the regulatory process of online casino gambling.

On the other hand, United States Representative, Barney Frank, continues to mount support for his legislative bill that will overturn the existing online gambling ban in the United States, which remains basically unenforceable.  H.R. 2267, the Internet Gambling Regulation, Consumer Protection and Enforcement Act of 2009, sponsored by Frank and co-sponsored by 65 legislators with bi-partisan support, would establish an enforcement framework so that Internet operators could acquire licensure for operating online casino gambling sites. The proposed bill will supersede the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006, which restricts the use of payment systems for Americans who engage in online casino gambling.