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With the worldwide Internet gambling market generating some $330 billion, US states the likes of New Jersey and California are looking to legalize the activity within their own borders.
The New Jersey Assembly's Regulatory Oversight Committee voted unanimously on December 9 to allow Internet gambling, including sports betting and poker, for the state’s nearly 9 million residents. That number does not include the significant out-of-state workforce capable of betting from New Jersey in expansive border cities like Jersey City, where a number of New York-based firms have moved in recent years.
Designated as S-490, the New Jersey gambling bill sponsored by State Senator Raymond Lesniak (D-Union) was expected to pass the full Assembly today (Monday, Dec. 13), though a delay has since been announced. It would then become law next month unless Governor Chris Christie pulls out his veto pen. Christie has not supported an effort to legalize Internet gambling in the state, but cites “lack of prioritization” as the reason.
Web-based betting establishments would operate from Atlantic City. The state estimates it can take in from $250 to $250 million within 5 years and create hundreds of new jobs.
Meanwhile, on the opposite coast, California is rushing to legalize online poker.
Two bills are currently under considering, including one that would allow up to three licensed operators to provide online poker to the state’s nearly 37 million residents.
Senator Lou Correa has also authored a bill that is being embraced by some of the state’s leading Indian casino operators.
- Aaron Goldstein, Gambling911.com
