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- The New Jersey Legislature has launched its 2026 session with several significant gaming-related bills that could reshape the state’s gambling landscape.
- Key proposals include expanding casino locations beyond Atlantic City, instituting a statewide smoking ban in casinos, and regulating online sweepstakes casinos.
- These developments are particularly relevant as New Jersey seeks to maintain its competitive edge amid growing casino activity in neighboring states like New York.
As a new legislative session in New Jersey begins, lawmakers will consider a variety of gaming-related bills.
Two Senate Concurrent Resolutions (31 and 66) aim to amend the New Jersey Constitution to allow slot machine gambling at horse racetracks, specifically to create a casino at the Meadowlands in North Jersey. The rationale behind these bills is to keep gaming tax revenue within New Jersey, especially as nearby states such as New York inaugurate new casinos in the Bronx and Queens.
Additionally, there are two bills, Senate Bill 212 and Senate Bill 698, which both address smoking in casinos. One would ban it outright, while the other would put more restrictions on it.
Finally, Senate Bill 1500 proposes to regulate the online sweepstakes casinos that are left in New Jersey after the state banned ones that use dual-currency systems last August. Under the proposal, sweepstakes operators would pay a 20% tax on revenue.
Incoming governor supports smoking ban at casinos
These proposed changes may signal a broader range of gambling options and a shift toward healthier environments in casinos.
The potential North Jersey casino at Meadowlands could offer new venues closer to the populous New York metropolitan area, possibly attracting more players who currently travel out of state.
The smoking ban, supported by incoming Gov. Mikie Sherrill, aligns with public health trends, suggesting a future where casinos might attract younger, smoke-free clientele. However, casino operators along the shore express concerns about potential player loss and job cuts linked to eliminating smoking indoors.
Based on reporting by Devin O’Connor for Casino.org.
