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Will take place in 12 northern counties
BY TOM HESTER SR.
NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM
Gov. Chris Christie on Tuesday signed bipartisan legislation that attempts to boost New Jersey’s horse racing industry by allowing betting in taverns and restaurants.
The law directs the state Racing Commission to implement a three-year pilot program in selected taverns, restaurants in the northern part of the state to provide electronic wagering terminals. The terminals would be subject to the commission’s regulation and control. Each license issued under the pilot program will be temporary, subject to review and renewal on an annual basis.
The law limits the pilot program to eligible venues in Bergen, Hudson, Essex, Passaic, Union, Morris, Somerset, Hunterdon, Warren and Sussex counties and northern Middlesex and Ocean counties.
Finally, it directs the commission to issue a report to the governor and the Legislature within three years of the issuance of the first license under the pilot program. The report must contain an evaluation of the program, provide the commission’s opinion as to whether the pilot program should be continued and, if so, recommendations for further improvement and implementation.
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“This is a key piece in our ongoing effort to ensure New Jersey’s horse racing industry remains a strong and viable economic engine and entertainment attraction,” Assemblyman John Burzichelli (D-Gloucester), a co-sponsor, said. “This modernizes the industry and makes it easier for racing fans to place wagers while also boosting our restaurant industry. It’s a true win-win and a common sense approach to today’s consumer demands and desires for convenience and ease of access.”
Sen. Jennifer Beck (R-Monmouth), another co-sponsor, said, "Expanding betting options is an important part of the plan to make New Jersey's horse racing industry financially sound and sustainable. Convenience wagering options are essential to keeping bets in state rather than moving to tracks in New York or Pennsylvania.”
The bill S-3115/A-4285) also was sponsored by Assembly members Ralph Caputo (D-Essex) and Connie Wagner (D-Bergen).
