"Massachusetts Racetracks Continue to Suffer from the Competition of Online Gambling"

Like racetracks all over the country, the racetracks in the state of Massachusetts are feeling the pressure from the competition being brought on by the online casino industry. At the same time that online betting continues its growth in popularity, the popularity of traditional brick-and-mortar land based racetracks is on the decline. The appeal of online gambling seems to be just too severe for traditional style racetracks to compete. Obviously the convenience of Internet gambling is a big attraction but in addition the variety of rebates and promotions that are offered by most online casinos makes Internet gambling doubly attractive.

The latest move among Massachusetts’ racetracks is that their lobbyists are trying to legalize the installation of slot machines at racetracks in the state. It is their hope that this will augment the competitive edge of the racetrack industry. There efforts so far, have not been successful. There are now many in that industry who feel that even if slot machines are permitted, this would be no guarantee of their existence at racetracks bringing back customers. The competition of online gambling includes such factors as convenience, and the variety and attractiveness of promotions and rebates. A simple step such as installing slot machines still would not help the racetracks compete with these benefits.

Typically, although United States authorities have taken the position that online gambling is against the law, they have not yet started to go after individual gamblers. It is significant that in spite of the fact that it is considered as being illegal, must online gamblers are residents of the United States. What United States authorities have done so far is to of the after those who operate online gambling casinos. They do this based on the authority they view themselves as driving from the 1960’s Wire Act. This act prohibits the use of phone lines for making bets. Many have questioned the actual jurisdiction of the Wire Act however, and it is generally accepts that unless the United States is able to assume a more firm position against Internet gambling and to actively prosecute those who are involved in all aspects of the industry, long-established racetracks and all other forms of land-based brick and mortar gambling will go on suffering.