opinion

Could Porn Be Next?

XBIZ News recently reported on H.R. 4411, a new piece of legislation working its way through Washington that contains, among other things, a prohibition against Internet gambling transactions processed by U.S.-based financial institutions, or those that do business within the United States.

While most adult webmasters are not involved in promoting online gaming sites, the rhetoric and “justification” for this legislation may seem familiar. According to the bill’s sponsor, Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, (R-Tenn.), “Gambling is a serious addiction that undermines the family, dashes dreams and frays the fabric of society.”

One only need substitute the word “Pornography” for the word “Gambling” in the Senator’s statement to begin having an ominous feeling of déjà vu, as it’s exactly the type of claim that we’ve previously heard from the anti-porn lobby.

While those that like to fool themselves as to the importance of adult entertainment transactions to the credit card industry may wallow in a state of denial over the possibility that VISA or MasterCard could be forced to depart the marketplace, I’d only point to the departure of American Express from the adult market several years ago; not over a point of law, but over a point of politics and public pressure.

Although the passing of this bill into law could temporarily cripple the online gaming industry to one extent or another, I doubt that it would eliminate it; the service being so in demand – and so profitable – that alternative means to process American transactions could (and would) be found. Of course, this will only add fuel to the fire of opponent’s ire, proving that online gaming is a criminal enterprise, as evidenced by its circumvention of the law.

Regardless of how this all plays out, it’s a situation that bears watching – and one that leaves many adult webmasters wondering, “Could porn be next?”

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

Packing Tips: A Must-Have Travel Checklist for Creators

Traveling as a content creator isn’t just about hopping on a plane and hoping for the best. You need to be ready for anything, whether that means an amazing sunset you just have to capture, a last-minute editing session or an impromptu collab.

Megan Stokes ·
profile

Good Relations Fosters Sex Wellness, Positivity for 40+ Years

Melinda Myers, the founder and owner of Good Relations in Eureka, California, was still in college when she got invited to attend her first pleasure products home party.

Quinton Bellamie ·
opinion

Camming as a Couple: How to Balance Love and Livestreaming

Real-life couples who work together in the adult industry face a unique set of challenges that can test relationships in ways that most couples are unlikely to experience. The industry can offer both financial benefits and creative freedom, and working together can strengthen a partnership — but it can also present emotional, social and professional obstacles that must be carefully managed.

opinion

PR Moves: How to Know When It's Time to Hire a Rep

If you’ve achieved a stable career with steady work, but find yourself at an impasse where growth is concerned, it might be time to look into hiring a public relations professional to help you expand your brand and reach.

Hime Marie ·
opinion

Why It's Time for Pleasure Brands to Stop Ignoring B2C Marketing

For many B2B adult brands, marketing to consumers feels like a waste of time. I’ve heard it so many times: “We sell to retailers, not consumers. Why should we invest in B2C marketing?”

Hail Groo ·
profile

WIA Profile: Lexi Morin

Lexi Morin’s journey into the adult industry began with a Craigslist ad and a leap of faith. In 2011, fresh-faced and ambitious, she was scrolling through job ads on Craigslist when she stumbled upon a listing for an assistant makeup artist.

Women In Adult ·
opinion

The Midlife Movement Is Exploding; Is the Pleasure Industry Ready?

In marketing, there tends to be an emphasis on the younger generation — the trendsetters. The assumption is that appealing to the younger market has a halo effect on older consumers, who look to younger folks for what is on trend.

Sarah Tomchesson ·
profile

Still Rocking: The Hun Celebrates 30 Years in the Game

In the ever-changing landscape of adult entertainment, The Hun’s Yellow Pages stands out for its endurance. As one of the internet’s original fixtures, literally nearly as old as the web itself, The Hun has functioned as a living archive for online adult content, quietly maintaining its relevance with an interface that feels more nostalgic than flashy.

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

Digital Desires: AI's Emerging Role in Adult Entertainment

The adult industry has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to embracing new technology. From the early days of dial-up internet and grainy video clips to today’s polished social media platforms and streaming services, our industry has never been afraid to innovate. But now, artificial intelligence (AI) is shaking things up in ways that are exciting but also daunting.

Steve Lightspeed ·
opinion

Gender Play Gets Creative With Fantasy Toys

Sex toy manufacturers are increasingly recognizing the value of fantasy products, expanding their lines to include ever more diverse designs. What was once considered a niche market has proven to have broad appeal, demonstrating that people are eager to explore desires that extend beyond conventional human experiences.

Rin Musick ·
Show More