STAMPING OUT UNDERAGE GAMBLING

(475) (19-September-2006)

Big tournaments and Internet gambling described as flashy and fun

The law enforcement authorities in Louisiana are in the news again this week with a new initiative, this time a more commendable effort to wave warning flags about underage gambling.

According to a local television station the Louisiana attorney general's office is developing a program to target underage gamblers

Attorney General Charles Foti is the man with the plan, and says that high profile televised Texas Hold Em tournaments and unregulated Internet gambling have made gambling look "flashy and fun" to young people, encouraging them to participate in the hope of big wins and fame.

The program includes visits to schools and television coverage of the problem.