First of Stu, Gene's answer was fairly consistent with what most people talk about when they discuss if winnings are taxable, most people simply say that if it does not generate a 1099 or W2G its not taxable.

Yes this is technically incorrect, yet from a practical matter it is in fact an accurate answer, after all any win that does not generate a 1099 or W2G is probably not getting listed on someones taxes (their are clearly some people out there who may be listing all wins but 99.9999% of people who win money in a casino will not declare that win on their taxes unless there was a 1099 or W2G). And the chances of being caught for not listing these wins is so miniscule that it it is hardly existent at all.

As to the correct answer being given by the EA in LVA I would note that the first answer which appeared greatly oversimplified the issue. Second the answer as it appears is essentially that each individual should consult with a tax professional to assess their specifc circumstances. While I agree ith that advice it seems to me that it really isn't an answer to the question. Its very easy to be as you say "absolutely correct" when your answer is "consult with an expert".