Group trying to legalize online poker

(WWLP) - The Poker Players' Alliance is mounting a major lobbying effort with Congress this week to legalize the game online.

The Justice Department contends internet gambling is illegal, but Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank is sponsoring a bill that would regulate online poker rather than ban it.

Locally, many told 22News that they are not in favor.

"I think it would only cause more problems and more gambling, addictions and a lot of money spent doing that at home," said Tammy Sullivan of Springfield.

Kristina Richard of East Longmeadow told 22News, "I think it would be really addictive, and it's too easy to just get drawn into something like that."

The Poker Alliance has set up meetings with 100 members of Congress this week to push their cause.