New Jersey casino association opposes egaming expansion bill

The Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ) has urged state lawmakers to reject a bill that would allow North Jersey racetracks to offer internet gaming cafes.

Bill A4255, introduced earlier this month by two state Assembly Members, would allow Monmouth Park and Meadowlands to partner with casino operators to create areas inside their facilities that offer online gambling.

However the move comes little more than a month after referendum voters rejected a plan to expand gambling beyond Atlantic City and has prompted a backlash from the casino industry.

“Last month, New Jersey voters overwhelmingly rejected a ballot measure that would allow casinos in northern New Jersey, delivering a resounding no to casino development outside of Atlantic City,” said a statement from the CANJ.

“Despite that, legislation was almost immediately moved that would effectively allow casino slot machines at New Jersey racetracks outside of Atlantic City.”

According to the bill’s supporters, the so-called internet cafes would be leased out to casino operators in Atlantic City with online gaming capabilities, helping to generate extra revenue for the struggling racetracks and casinos.

However, the association’s statement added: “Pursuing this legislation is a direct affront to the residents of this state who have clearly voted against the very activity it seeks to permit.

“The association opposes this legislation and urges the legislature to respect the will of the people, who have clearly spoken on this issue.”

The opposition could prove fatal for the bill, according to Porzio lobbyist Barbara DeMarco, since the Association’s members include all the key egaming operators in New Jersey like the Borgata, the Tropicana, the Golden Nugget, Resorts and Caesars Interactive.

DeMarco said the group opposed any legislation that would allow people to gather and gamble in one place outside of Atlantic City.

“This bill is as good as dead,” DeMarco told EGR NA.