Posted 7/23/2008 7:30:00 AM
Justice Minister Rob Nicholson says he is receptive to a proposal to lift a criminal ban on betting on individual sporting events at casinos.
The government has been pressed by casinos and the Ontario government to reverse the Criminal Code prohibition to help the dwindling fortunes of gaming establishments, particularly those that are near the Canada-U. S. border and are drawing fewer Americans.
"I have encouraged provinces that ... we have in the past responded to requests to change the laws as they relate to betting," Mr. Nicholson said in an interview. "If they want to engage stakeholders then I am prepared to listen."
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The Criminal Code outlaws bookmaking (accepting wagers), a crime that carries a maximum two-year sentence. The code contains a broad range of exceptions, including government-run sports lotteries such as Pro-Line, ...
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