New Jersey Internet Gambling Should be Set for Fall

A vote to legalize online gambling in New Jersey will take place in the state’s senate on May 31.  The delay will push back the start of legalized Internet gambling in the Garden State somewhat, but the bill’s sponsor, Raymond Lesniak, still anticipates a fall starting date.

He told PokerNews.com:  "We have to make sure we have all the Democratic votes there, so we have to schedule around people's vacations," Lesniak said. "Things like this happen. A year ago, the governor vetoed the first attempt. This time, it looks like we're going to reach the finish line. It's just taking longer than I hoped for."

Governor Chris Christie has already indicated he will support the amended bill. 

If the bill passes May 31 in the Senate, Lesniak expects it to be passed by the State Assembly in June and signed by the governor soon after.  New Jersey would become only the second state to legalize online gambling after Nevada.  New Jersey, however, has indicated they are more welcome to form compacts with other states. 

"I'm extremely confident," Lesniak said. "The casinos really need it. They want it. Really, it's the only way some of them will survive."

- Gilbert Horowitz, Gambling911.com