For those with a penchant for wagering on the East Coast, New Jersey emerges as the ultimate destination. The state is teeming with diverse gambling venues, ranging from brick-and-mortar casinos to sports betting platforms, ensuring that every player finds their ideal betting haven. The Atlantic City boardwalk stands out as a prominent hotspot, housing a collection of globally recognized casinos. Yet, New Jersey’s gambling landscape extends beyond this iconic strip. Pari-mutuel race tracks offer an alternative thrill for visitors, while charitable gambling options and a state-run lottery add to the mix. What truly distinguishes New Jersey, however, is its regulated online gambling ecosystem. This allows residents to enjoy state-licensed casino games and poker rounds, eliminating the need to rely on offshore iGaming platforms.
Summary of Legal Gambling in New Jersey
New Jersey’s laws focus on penalizing unlawful gambling operators rather than individual gamblers. This implies that residents can freely partake in land-based casino games, sports betting, and pari-mutuel wagering. Furthermore, online gambling activities such as online casinos, sportsbooks, poker, and DFS are permissible. The state also sanctions lottery games and charitable gaming activities like bingo, raffles, and casino nights. The legal age for participating in bingo, lottery games, and pari-mutuel is 18, while it is 21 for casinos. Therefore, Garden State offers a thrilling and worry-free gambling experience within its legal framework.
The Evolution of Gambling in New Jersey
The journey of regulated gambling in New Jersey began in 1939 with the legalization of pari-mutuel horse race betting. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the notion of legalizing casino gambling was presented to the state’s inhabitants. An initial referendum in 1974 faced rejection by voters concerned about the potential involvement of organized crime. A modified proposal was accepted two years later, permitting casinos exclusively in Atlantic City as a distinctive opportunity for urban redevelopment. Governor Brendan Byrne enacted the New Jersey Casino Control Act into law on June 2, 1977, paving the way for the inauguration of the state’s first-ever legal casino in the subsequent years.
At its pinnacle, Atlantic City was graced by 12 casinos, each offering unmatched gaming experiences. The financial crisis and burgeoning gambling opportunities in neighboring states led to a downturn, resulting in the closure of five casinos between 2014 and 2016. This left many contemplating the survival of the industry. Nonetheless, due to economic recovery and legislative efforts to revive the ailing industry, two more casinos have been established in recent times.
The legalization journey of sports betting was far from smooth. A bill to legalize sports betting in the state was passed in 2012 following a non-binding referendum. This move was challenged by professional sports leagues like the NBA, NCAA, NFL, NHL, and MLB who filed a lawsuit against New Jersey, alleging violation of PASPA. While the dispute played out in courts, the Supreme Court decided to annul PASPA that allowed New Jersey to formulate new betting legislation. After a prolonged struggle, sports betting was eventually legalized in the Garden State.
Over time, New Jersey has wrestled with defining legal gambling and its regulation. Currently, the state identifies illegal gambling as any unlicensed activity where something of value is risked on the outcome of a chance contest or a future uncontrollable event. This definition could cover offshore gambling platforms, but the state primarily targets operators rather than individual gamblers. As New Jersey continues to unravel the intricacies of gambling regulation, the industry’s future in the state remains an intriguing prospect.
The Casino Control Act
The Casino Control Act was instituted as a catalyst to revive Atlantic City’s status as the World’s Playground and to stimulate expansion in New Jersey’s hospitality sector. This Act specifically underscores the necessity of rejuvenating existing tourist attractions while fostering the growth of new ones. Given Atlantic City’s wealth of natural resources, there lies a unique opportunity to resurrect its heyday as the primary nexus of the Eastern United States. Revamping convention centers, entertainment venues, and cultural hubs will not only invigorate the tourism sector but also contribute to the state’s economic surge. The Casino Control Act assures a promising future for Atlantic City.
This crucial legislation has had an enduring influence on Atlantic City’s identity. Rather than permitting the uncontrolled proliferation of casinos, the Act stipulated that only major hotels and convention centers were eligible for casino licenses. This safeguarded the hospitality industry’s central role in the city, with casino rooms seen as an extension of these establishments rather than separate entities.
The Casino Control Act serves as a fundamental pillar of business in Atlantic City by offering a regulatory framework that inspires trust in the licensed businesses operating within its bounds. By focusing on establishing a stable and dependable environment for both existing and prospective ventures, the Act has been instrumental in Atlantic City’s economic evolution and the wider growth of New Jersey’s resort, convention, and tourist industries. Through promoting investment and supporting the makeover of existing facilities, the Act has fueled the ongoing renaissance of this iconic locale, transforming it into a must-see destination for travelers nationwide and globally.
State licensing and oversight
The state of New Jersey places high importance on the regulation and governance of casino facilities, aiming to instill public trust in the regulatory process and the operations of casinos. Its licensing and oversight system stringently regulates all individuals, premises, practices, and associations linked to licensed casinos and their related service industries. Moreover, comprehensive law enforcement supervision ensures the effectiveness and integrity of this regulatory system.
A dual-agency structure has been established to ensure thorough monitoring of all facets of the casino industry. The Casino Control Commission operates as an independent decision-making entity, separate from the Department of Treasury, to avoid undue influences. Concurrently, the Division of Gaming Enforcement under the Attorney General’s office enforces comprehensive law enforcement rules on all individuals, practices, and premises associated with casino operations and related services.
The gaming industry’s success is significantly influenced by the public’s perception of its members. There have been instances where executives were deemed unfit, leading to their removal from their companies to secure licenses. This underscores the need for good character, honesty, and integrity amongst industry participants. In New Jersey, the criteria for acquiring a casino license are stringent, earning it the moniker of “the gold standard” for casino corporations.
During the 1990s, New Jersey proactively cultivated a more business-friendly environment for the casino industry, marking a significant turning point that attracted more mainstream investors. Since then, casinos have been perceived as legitimate and profitable ventures by investors keen to exploit the industry’s potential. These regulatory modifications have left an enduring imprint on the state, making the casino industry an essential component of New Jersey’s economy. It has spurred economic growth and activity in Atlantic City, the Greater Atlantic City Region, and across the entire state.
Frequently Asked Questions about Online Gambling Laws in New Jersey
- What law governs online gambling in New Jersey?
Online gambling in New Jersey is regulated under the New Jersey State Statutes, Section 2. This law primarily focuses on curbing illegal gambling operations while being more tolerant toward individual gamblers.
- Is it legal to engage in online gambling with real money in New Jersey?
New Jersey residents are free to participate in online gambling activities at casinos, sportsbooks, and poker rooms that are state-regulated. While gambling at offshore iGaming sites isn’t deemed illegal, we strongly recommend using NJ gambling sites licensed and regulated by the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement for safety and reassurance.
- Do offshore gambling platforms accept New Jersey residents?
Yes. New Jersey residents can register with most major offshore gambling platforms, including Bovada.
- What are the usual banking options supported by sites based in New Jersey?
Local sites typically offer more banking options than offshore operators, but Visa or MasterCard credit cards are universally accepted by both. Withdrawals can be a bit more complex; however, most sites usually permit wire transfer withdrawals and provide one or two additional operator-specific methods.
- Does New Jersey offer any state-regulated online gambling?
New Jersey is home to numerous online casinos and poker sites run by Atlantic City casinos in collaboration with top international iGaming software developers.
- Is it possible for New Jersey to regulate online gambling?
New Jersey has already set up a regulated iGaming market within the state. Many local casinos have partnered with global giants in the online gambling industry to launch successful online poker rooms and casino sites.
New Jersey Online Casinos 2023
If you’re eager to apply your knowledge of New Jersey’s gambling regulations and dive into some online gaming, we’re here to guide you to the list of the best NJ Online Casinos 2023. Here’s a list of the top online gaming platforms in the Garden State this year.
Tipico Casino – As the official partner of Ocean Casino Resort, Tipico is a leading contender in the state’s online gaming scene. Apart from its popular sportsbook, Tipico offers a wide array of casino games such as slots, table games, and online poker. Newcomers are greeted with an attractive 100% deposit match up to $50, with numerous other promotions available for regular players.
DraftKings Casino – Since its inception in Garden State in 2019, DraftKings has been offering a vast collection of slots, table games, and live dealer options. It stands out with exclusive games like its branded slots and thrilling progressive jackpot slots. For newcomers, there’s an enticing welcome bonus: a 100% deposit match up to $2,000.
Caesars Casino – Launching soon after the legalization of online gambling in 2013, Caesars quickly established itself with an impressive roster of over 800 slot and table games. Beyond that, players can enjoy live dealer play, regular promotions, and bonus bets. The rewards program offers redeemable perks at resorts like Caesars Atlantic City and Caesars Palace Las Vegas. The generous welcome bonus of a 100% deposit match up to $2,000 adds to its appeal.
BetRivers Casino – BetRivers Casino has rapidly gained popularity among New Jersey’s online gaming enthusiasts. Its extensive selection of games includes popular slot titles and classic table games like blackjack and roulette. Live casino action is also available. What sets BetRivers apart are its promotional offerings and bonuses that significantly enhance players’ bankrolls.
Bally Casino – Offering a wide range of high RTP slots and a captivating live dealer section, Bally Casino caters well to serious players. Their generous welcome bonus refunds up to $100 in net losses, and regular players can benefit from recurring promotions and a VIP loyalty program.
PlayStar – In partnership with Ocean Casino Resort, PlayStar provides games from major industry players like NetEnt, Microgaming, and Pragmatic Play. Whether you prefer slots, table games, or live dealer options, PlayStar has something for you. Their generous deposit match welcome offer provides further incentive to join the fun.
Borgata – Borgata’s popularity extends beyond its prime location in Atlantic City to its exciting online casino. Players in New Jersey can enjoy a plethora of games like slots, blackjack, and roulette from home. Borgata’s live casino offers an authentic experience, and new players can benefit from a welcome bonus of a 100% deposit match up to $1,000 and $20 free.
Betway Casino – Recently launched in New Jersey, Betway Casino offers a smooth online gambling experience. With a user-friendly website, an excellent selection of slots and table games, and mobile apps for iOS and Android, Betway is worth exploring. Their 100% first deposit match bonus of up to $1000 for new players is a fantastic incentive.
Bet365 – Known worldwide for its top-notch sports betting services, Bet365’s casino offerings are equally impressive for New Jersey players. With a wide variety of games including popular online slots and jackpot games, Bet365 is a great choice. A welcome bonus of a 100% deposit match up to $1,000 makes it even more appealing.
BetMGM Casino – As the digital extension of MGM Resorts International, the platform offers a wide range of gaming options, from slots to table games, along with unique sports-themed titles. One of the significant advantages of playing at BetMGM Casino is the continuous promotions, including the M Life rewards program. Here, players can earn points for each dollar they wager and exchange them for various comps and perks. To sweeten the deal, new players can avail of a welcome bonus of $25 in free credits and a 100% deposit match bonus of up to $1,000. With such a plethora of offerings, it’s no wonder BetMGM is a top pick among casino aficionados.
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
