On June 11, 2018, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a law making it legal to bet on sports across the state. The legalization of sports gambling in the state comes after a near quarter-century-long federal ban that was recently overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court.
While Phil Murphy and local New Jersey residents may be jumping for joy due to the reversal of the ban, here at The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, the CCGNJ, we are treading with caution. Legalizing sports betting in Atlantic City further legitimizes an activity that could potentially lead to more gambling disorders in New Jersey. Regardless, the CCGNJ is here to help with countless resources for anyone who may need it. With one simple phone call to our free and 100% confidential hotline, 1-800-GAMBLER, you will find treatment opportunities, help meetings, professional counselors, and more.
At this time, the CCGNJ is unsure how sports betting in AC will unfold, but in the meantime, we’ve done our research, and there are things everyone should know about its recent legalization.
- Stephen Sweeney, State Senate President, along with Gov. Phil Murphy, feel the new gaming sector in New Jersey puts the state in an excellent position to generate more jobs and boost the economy, especially in the casino and horse racing industry.
- State officials have been itching to legalize sports betting, spending nearly $9 million in taxpayer money on its battle. Meanwhile, United States President Donald Trump and the National Collegiate Athletic Association has long opposed its enactment.
- According to the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling, by clearing the paths for all states to permit sports betting, the stage is set the for what could be the most significant expansion of gambling in the history of our nation. She also wanted lawmakers to understand that unless appropriate steps are taken, gambling disorders will likely rise as well.
- Currently, there are more than a dozen states that are looking to introduce legalized sports gambling legislation. Some of these states include close New Jersey neighbors Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York.
What are your thoughts on sports betting legally entering our state? Leave us a reply below.