A message from the Chairman of the Poker Players Alliance...
(Visit
http://www.congressionalpoker.org/ for further information.)
Dear Poker Player:
Since 2006, the Poker Players Alliance (PPA) has been the advocate for the poker community in Washington, D.C. During this time, the PPA has met with nearly every member of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate to educate them about poker, describe why it is a game of skill and promote licensing and regulation of Internet poker.
We have come a long way since the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) was signed into law on October 13, 2006. In just two short years, the voices of poker players and the collective efforts of the PPA have effectively highlighted the failings of UIGEA and promoted Internet freedom. Further, we have gained significant allies in Congress. I am proud to tell you that during this past legislative session there were nine, let me repeat NINE, pro Internet gaming bills introduced! This is a remarkable change from the days when poker players were fighting off legislative efforts to ban this national pastime.
Over the years, the PPA has collected much information about Members of Congress and their stance on poker. We have compiled this data for you in an easy to use guide. PPA’s official Congressional Rating Guide gives grades from A+ to F- to every member of the U.S. House and Senate based on their position on poker. Members of Congress for whom a position could not be determined are noted with a question mark.
In most cases, grades are based on co-sponsorship of bills, Congressional letters of support, public statements and private meetings with the PPA and our members due to the lack of full votes by either the House or Senate. For example, there has been very little action in the U.S. Senate on our issue since the UIGEA became law and therefore many Senators have not staked a position. In the U.S. House, there have been two votes in the Financial Services Committee, but the full House has not voted on our pro-poker bills. Grades are not permanent and this guide will be updated periodically. Our goal is for all Members of Congress to score a grade of A or better.
The PPA Congressional Rating Guide is searchable by state and by zip code. As an additional benefit, you can automatically send an email to your Member of Congress directly from the guide to let them know how you feel about their grade and voice your support of the great game of poker.
We hope you find this information useful. Feel free to pass this website along to your fellow poker players and urge them to contact their Members of Congress.
Knowing how your elected officials stand on the issues important to you is half the battle -- letting them know that you’re a voter who supports poker takes care of the rest.
Proud to Play,
Senator Alfonse D’Amato, Chairman
Poker Players Alliance
(Visit
http://www.congressionalpoker.org/ for further information.)
