New Jersey Assembly Bill A405

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Allows horse racetracks to be available for placing wagers at casinos in Atlantic City using Internet.

Note

Additionally, the bill includes specific penalties for violations related to unauthorized wagering activities and advertising—aiming to enforce stringent compliance within this newly established legal framework. The swift effective date of the bill, upon passage, implies a push for rapid integration of these practices into New Jersey's gaming environment.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would fundamentally alter the landscape of Internet gaming in New Jersey by integrating horse racing venues into the online casino betting framework. The Division of Gaming Enforcement will maintain jurisdiction over the Internet gaming activities that originate from these racetracks, establishing minimum standards for the equipment and practices at these locations. Moreover, this advancement would likely enhance revenue streams for both racetracks and casinos, potentially invigorating the state's gaming economy.

Summary

Assembly Bill A405 proposes to allow horse racetracks in New Jersey to serve as venues where individuals holding Internet gaming accounts can place wagers on casinos located in Atlantic City. This bill seeks to amend and supplement existing legislation from 2013 governing Internet gaming, thereby expanding the possibilities for wagering locations beyond the confines of the Atlantic City casinos. The initiative is aimed at leveraging the existing infrastructure of horse racetracks to boost participation in online gaming.

Contention

While supporters of A405 may argue that the bill fosters an innovative collaboration between horse racetracks and casinos to expand gaming options, detractors might express concerns regarding the implications for regulatory oversight. Critics fear that allowing racetracks to host online wagering may lead to complications in enforcement and oversight, particularly as Internet gaming activities will not fall under the purview of the New Jersey Racing Commission. This change raises questions about the integrity and governance of gambling practices across different venues.