New Jersey Votes YES to Online Gambling

Bill A2578, the official name of the proposed New Jersey legislation legalizing online casino gambling for its residents, has been passed by the state’s General Assembly. There is good potential that the bill could be placed before the Senate and signed by Republican Governor Christie by the end of the month.

This isn’t the first time Governor Christie has seen such a bill (he vetoed a similar one last year), but this proposed legislation comes with different language and in a more desperate time.This new bill prohibits online gambling from being offered in bars and Internet cafes, and would only allow folks from out of state to participate as long as it was consistent with federal law.

The vote on Monday’s General Assembly was nearly two to one; 48 members were for the measure and 24 members were against it. Four other members were not present. “We must position New Jersey’s gaming industry to thrive in the 21st Century, and that involves authorizing a legally sound Internet gaming law,” said Assemblyman John Burzichelli, in an iGaming Business article. “This is another key piece of our effort to boost New Jersey’s gaming industry by expanding and modernizing our wagering options. This will rejuvenate our tourist industry while increasing employment, capital investment and much needed urban redevelopment.”

The next item on the bill’s to do list is to pass in the Senate, which is voting on Thursday.

Author: GamesAndCasino