Gambling over the internet is big-time illegal in the state of Washington. A few WA legislators (Strow, Kirby, Upthegrove, B. Sullivan, Simpson, Appleton) feel that internet gambling should be OK in the privacy of one’s home, and so introduced House Bill 1243 in January, 2007.

Provides that, in a prosecution for a violation of RCW 9.46.240, it is an affirmative defense, which the defendant must prove by a preponderance of the evidence, that the defendant transmitted or received the gambling information over the internet, or that the defendant installed or
maintained equipment for the transmission or receipt of gambling information over the internet, in his or her primary residence for recreational purposes. For purposes of this provision, “recreational purposes” means for the defendant’s
own enjoyment and not as part of an enterprise that derives income from operating an internet.

At least one post has suggested that this bill passed on April 23 or 24. It did not. 

I spoke with Jennifer with the WA Legislative Hotline (1.800.562.6000) who informed me that this is a mistake, and that no action has been taken on the bill since it was read for the first time in January, 2007. Apparently, they mixed up and posted that 1243 had passed, when in fact it was 1343 that had passed (according to Jennifer).

You can reach Jennifer at the number above, and ask for Hotline 17 to be connected directly to her.