Gambling expansion bill advances in New Jersey

Just when everybody thought that the gambling expansion plan is already dead in the water, New Jersey lawmakers made a stealthy move to forward a bill that calls for the introduction of alternative gaming areas in at least a few of the state’s horse racetracks.

The move of state legislators to advance Bill A4255 came a month after New Jersey residents overwhelmingly rejected a ballot measure that would have allowed casinos in North Jersey

Politico reported that the new proposal, which hurdled the Assembly gaming committee after a 4-3 vote, may allow the expansion of casinos to the race tracks without amending the state constitution or holding another election.

To be specific,  A4255 will allow Monmouth Park and the Meadowlands Racetrack could partner with existing Atlantic City casinos to create what supporters described as “internet cafes” offering online gambling.