New Jersey Senate Also Approves Internet Gambling Bill
In addition to a sports betting bill, the New Jersey Senate on Monday approved a bill that would allow Internet gambling by New Jersey’s nearly 9 million residents, as well as people from outside the United States. “Sophisticated software” housed on servers in Atlantic City casinos would ensure gamblers from the other 49 US states cannot gamble online, according to Sen. Ray Lesniak (D-Union), who authored the bill.
Earlier in the day, a resolution was passed by the Senate Economic Growth Committee calling for a referendum that would allow residents to vote on legalized sports betting in the state next November.
Another bill will allow for casinos to operate in hotels with a minimum of 200 rooms, down from the 500 room requirement.
The Associated Press reports that the bill “also provides for a second new casino to initially open with 200 rooms, and expand to 500 rooms within five years. The Seminole tribe of Florida, through its Hard Rock franchise, plans to build such a casino on the Atlantic City Boardwalk if the bill becomes law.”
All indications are that Governor Chris Christie will sign off on the legislation.
Proponents for legalized sports betting in the state have suggested that legalized online sports betting and poker in New Jersey would result in1,900 jobs, $250 million in annual gross gaming revenue and up to $55 million in annual state gaming taxes.
- Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher
