Garden State Times

The New Jersey Senate has approved a bill sponsored by Senator Vince Polistina that extends the authorization of online gambling through 2028. Senator Polistina, a Republican from District 2, expressed his satisfaction with the Senate's decision, stating, "Today's Senate vote advancing my legislation will help keep New Jersey at the forefront of an evolving gambling industry by supporting casinos' application of online gaming. The legalization of online gambling and sports betting was a catalyst for struggling casinos in the aftermath of the Great Recession."

The legislation, known as S-3075 / A-2190, seeks to build on the success of online gambling in New Jersey, which was legalized in 2013 for a ten-year period. With the current authorization set to expire in November 2023, the bill proposes an extension for an additional five years, aiming to ensure stability in the state's gambling industry.

Senator Polistina highlighted the positive impact of online gambling on the state's economy, job market, and overall revenue generation, especially in areas like Atlantic City. He emphasized, "In places like Atlantic City, internet gaming has created a number of good paying jobs after the Great Recession and has generated millions of dollars in tax revenues for the state. This legislation would extend the authorization of online gaming services through 2028 to ensure stability in the gambling industry."

Furthermore, Polistina noted the significance of internet gaming during challenging times, stating, "Internet gaming revitalized New Jersey's casinos and was a strong economic driver for the industry during the pandemic." The extension of online gaming authorization is seen as a supportive measure to secure the continued success of casinos in New Jersey, acknowledging the integral role of the internet in shaping their future.

The bill's passage reflects the Senate's recognition of the positive outcomes of online gambling in New Jersey and its commitment to sustaining the industry's growth and competitiveness in the years to come.