New Jersey Intrastate Online Gambling Bill Vetoed

In a surprising turn of events, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie vetoed a bill on Thursday that would have made intrastate online gambling legal in New Jersey.  Known as bill S-490, the bill was passed by a large margin in both houses in the state legislature.

No legalized online poker for New Jersey residents - for now

Based on the decision handed down from the Governor, part of the veto centered on the fact that he felt that the bill was not constitutional.  Furthermore, he also felt that the bill would lead to establishments outside of Atlantic City setting up internet gambling opportunities.  As such, he felt that this conflicted with the laws that limit gambling to within Atlantic City.

The Governor did leave the door open for intrastate gambling to be legalized, but he stated that if that were to happen, it would have to be put to a vote of the citizens of the state of New Jersey.  He said, “If the Legislature believes that expanding gambling outside of Atlantic City is in the best interests of the State of New Jersey, it should place the question on the ballot for the voters to decide.”

If the bill had been signed into law, Casinos in Atlantic City would have been allowed to offer all forms of games, including table games online.  One major opponent to this law was Caesars Entertainment.  They are in favor of national legislation over intrastate legislation.

The Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act currently prohibits U.S. banks from conducting online gambling transactions, and at present online poker is considered gambling by lawmakers.

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