Easy Credit Fuels Underage Online Gambling 

Barney Frank has been relentless in the defense of his anti-UIGEA bill. One of the more compelling criticisms against online gambling is that it is unable to effectively prevent minors from wagering. Supporters of the UIGEA gather considerable strength from this argument. In a written submission given to US News and World Report Frank has countered this stand.

Frank claims that the problem is not with online gambling per se, but with minors having access to easy credit. Hitherto adolescents in America had access to uncontrolled credit, which not only allowed them to engage in online gambling but also to pursue other undesirable activities. Frank said, “Even if Internet gambling is not allowed, young people with unrestricted access to credit cards will very often find ways to get themselves into a lot of trouble.” Frank averred that online casinos are taking steps to weed out under age applicants. Their task is made difficult because credit card companies actively sell their products to this group. Frank pointed out that the Congress has put in place a reformed credit card regime, which will restrict credit cards being given to college students and other underage groups.

Frank could not resist making a dig at his archrival Spencer Bachus. He said, “…there are a lot of banks making a lot of money from out-of-control credit spending, by both adults and teenagers. Surely Spencer Bachus will take on this powerful and rich dragon; after all, it’s for the children!” Frank ended by saying that it is impractical to ban every activity suitable only for adults because some are under age persons would access these.