(TRENTON) – Legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats John Burzichelli. Connie Wagner and Tim Eustace to allow mobile horse wagering was approved Thursday by the Assembly.
The bill (A-2610) authorizes the New Jersey Racing Commission to allow the use of mobile gaming devices by patrons at in-state racetracks to wager on in-state and out-of-state races being transmitted to the racetrack via simulcasting and live races taking place at that racetrack. It was approved 75-0.
“If our horse racing industry is going to remain attractive to visitors and competitive with neighboring states, it’s important that it keep up with the latest innovations and trends,” said Burzichelli (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland). “This will allow horse racing fans to enjoy gaming while they’re taking advantage of other amenities racetracks have to offer. It moves our horse wagering industry into the 21s Century.”
“This is really nothing more than a common sense step forward for our horse racing industry,” said Wagner (D-Bergen/Passaic). “Mobile devices are now a standard part of our lives allowing consumers to do any number of activities, and we continue our push to modernize our horse racing industry, this is a logical move. It’s embracing modern technology and easing access for horse wagering fans.”
“You can do so many activities these days with a mobile device, so expanding it to our horse racing industry is the smart approach to keep it competitive,” said Eustace (D-Bergen/Passaic). “We know our horse racing industry faces tough competition, so let’s keep it modern and vibrant. Let’s make it easier for patrons and promote the industry at the same time.”
