The Unlawful Internet and Gambling Enforcement Act's compliance deadline is nearing, and online gambling lobbyists in The States are coming together in an attempt to see the bill delayed for a second time.

The act, which would spell disaster for several operators and sites across North America was initially scheduled to come into force in November 2009, however thanks to the efforts of the PPA in particular, Barack Obama's Federal regulators were convinced to delay the bill for six months.

The new deadline is fast approaching, and with several parties still scrambling to become compliant, the desire for another deadline push-off is fervent.

The PPA is working closely with several organizations, including the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, as well as US congressman in trying to force the delay.

John Pappas, executive director of the PPA said: "The PPA is working alongside some of the groups we've worked with in the past to file a second petition with the Treasury Department and Federal Reserve."

However the chances of a second delay being achieved look less likely this time around, although Pappas isn't losing faith just yet.

"I think we need to go through the formality of it. We need to make sure we get just as many - if not more - members of Congress to weigh in, and we also need to get the banks to weigh in like we did last time."

The reason why many believe that the luck of the online gambling lobbyists has run out is based on the language of the Treasury and Fed back in November, when they implemented the initial delay:

"The Agencies believe that a six month extension is sufficient for regulated entities to address issues related to the definition of 'unlawful internet gambling."

Another factor working against the PPA is that Rep. Barney Frank, who was instrumental in securing the first delay, is believed to be less willing to lend his full support this time around, having lost allies and political gains in other policy areas by leading the lobbyist charge.

We'll keep you abreast of the situation as it develops and will continue to champions our support for the PPA and their allies. 

Banning online gambling is unlawful and illogical, in the EU, The US or anywhere else. And we call for politicians and governments worldwide, to consider the consumer and the evidence provided when making their decisions and policy on this subject.