PPA Chairman to give evidence at Washington hearing

John Pappas, Executive Director for the PPA, revealed that D'Amato will give the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade his views on what specific measures should be enacted in any federal legislation covering issues such as the solvency of operators, safety of funds and fairness of games.

Part of the powerful Committee on Energy and Commerce, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade could also discuss proposed legislation from Congressman Joe Barton, who sits on the 23-member body. His proposed HR 2366, which is otherwise known as the Internet Gambling Prohibition, Poker Consumer Protection and Strengthening UIGEA Act, was first put forward in June and would, if passed by both houses of congress, ultimately see the nation overturn the prohibition on participating in games of online poker.

“I think there are different stakeholders who are not necessarily on board with Barton's bill and would like to have a general discussion on how Internet poker can be regulated,” said Pappas.

“It will be a learning opportunity for the Committee members to get their heads around an issue without confusing specific legislation. We think it will be good for building momentum.“Given the Committee's interest in player protections, I think it is appropriate that someone from the PPA testifies. It's certainly a big moment for the organisation and we're very excited that D'Amato has been invited.”