Minnesota (Land of the Loons) Withdraws Planned Internet Gambling Blackout

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division has sent letters to 11 of the world’s largest internet service providers (ISPs) rescinding its notice to block 200 internet gambling websites.

In April, John Willems, Director of the Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division (DAGED), served notice to 11 ISP’s calling for the blockage of 200 gambling sites to Minnesota residents.

These threats have been rescinded and no action will be taken to block internet gambling sites in the state.

The withdraw is down to the Interactive Media Entertainment and Gaming Association (iMEGA), who, shortly after the list of 200 sites was made public, filed a lawsuit against Willems and his actions. iMEGA charged that Minnesota did not have jurisdiction to act and the State’s actions represented a breach of the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution.

In response to The Gambling Enforcement Divisions wanted crackdown iMEGA outlined their stance in a letter to the ISPs themselves. 

“Because website operators are not subscribers of yours, have no contracts with you, and are not provided facilities by you, you should be aware that the Minnesota Department of Public Safety is attempting to mislead you into believing you are bound by federal law.” 

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