New Jersey Internet Gambling Bill Still Waiting on Governor

February 05, 2011 | News Category: Gaming Law

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The online gambling bill in New Jersey moved quickly through the legislative channels, and is now waiting for Governor Chris Christie to sign the gambling bill, which would then legalize online gambling in New Jersey.

The online gambling industry is waiting with baited breath for Christie to make his move, and sign the bill, however, Christie has been sitting with the bill for nearly a month, and has not yet dealt with it. The decision to legalize online gambling in New Jersey is a monumental one because at this time, New Jersey would be the only state that would have legalized online gambling in the United States, since the federal government is still following the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act).

The online gambling bill A2570, authored by Ray Lesniak, was one of a few gambling related bills and proposals that have recently been sent to Governor Christie for his decisions. In fact, the governor has even signed some of these gambling bills in the past week. These two bills began their process through the political channels with a similar time-frame to the online gambling bill. One of these bills allows horse racing betting exchanges to be operational in New Jersey, and the other is about a new pooling method for pari-mutuel bets.

The online gambling bill went to Governor Christie's office on January 10th, when it had completed its passage through the New Jersey legislative process. According to New Jersey law, the governor has 45 days in which to make his decision and take action with regards to any bills that have been passed.

As governor, Christie is allowed to veto the bill should he wish to do so. If he does exercise the right to use his gubernatorial veto, the bill then goes back to the New Jersey legislature. After it would be returned to the legislature, it can be passed by a two-thirds majority. Another option that the governor may choose it to refer the bill to federal levels, which would give the federal government time to offer advice, and consider the issues.

On the other hand, should Governor Christie simply choose to ignore the bill, after the 45 day waiting period, the bill will automatically be passed into New Jersey law. It is certainly unclear to others if this might be the option that Christie is considering.

Should the New Jersey online gambling bill be accepted, New Jersey will most likely lead the way for other states to legalize online gambling.