New Jersey Gamblers Await Governor Signature

Internet gamblers from New Jersey are waiting nervously to see whether Governor Chris Christie is going to sign the legislation, making the state the first in the U.S to regulate internet casinos. It appears at this stage that gamblers might have to wait a bit longer.

The legislation has been passed without the normal hiccups by The Senate and Assembly. However, Christie is contemplating the political ramifications associated with the signing of such a pioneering bill. The governor has his doubts concerning the pending law.

“Assuming Governor Christie gives the law the green light, he would instantaneously gain the support of millions of internet gamblers all over the U.S. This might be to his advantage in future should he decide to run for higher office,” mentioned Gaming Analyst Steve Schwartz. “On the flip side of the coin, Christie might lose some of his main supporters in his own party, should he sign the bill, this might be one of the main reasons why he’s biding his time before signing the bill.”

The state is in grim need of revenue generated from gambling tax. Atlantic City casinos have lost millions of dollars as a result of the poor U.S economy. On the bright side of matters, AC casinos would receive an incredible boost should they offer internet casinos in future. If the law is approved, potentially hundreds of millions of dollars could be added to the state budget from tax revenue.

Lawmakers in other states are keeping close tabs on the outcome of the New Jersey internet gaming bill. Should Christie decide to veto the bill, Florida will most probably become the next state in line to regulate Internet gambling.

Florida lawmakers are discussing the likelihood of permitting pari-mutuel services to offer internet poker gambling. Legislators backing the idea are positive that a law could be created and internet poker rooms could be opened by July.

Governor Christie will be in Atlantic City soon signing other legislation that would help change the face of the gaming industry in Atlantic City. While in AC, the governor will be forced to provide an answer on how he will treat the awaiting internet gambling law.