New Jersey gaming stakeholders are reviving a discussion that was widely considered resolved. Almost ten years after a plan to allow casinos beyond Atlantic City was soundly defeated by voters, developers and legislators are once again proposing that the state could gain from permitting gambling facilities in its northern regions. This action is seen as a way for the state to defend its gambling market against increasing competition from New York City.
New York Casino Developments Pose a Fresh Challenge
A significant part of the discussion focuses on three forthcoming major casino resorts in New York. Some New Jersey officials have voiced concern that these multibillion-dollar developments could draw gamblers and revenue away from the Garden State. State Senator Vin Gopal and fellow legislator Paul Sarlo are prominent advocates for permitting casinos in northern counties, having put forward a bill to settle the issue via a statewide referendum.
A recent story in The New York Post indicates that the owners of Meadowlands Racetrack and Monmouth Park Racetrack also back this effort. Although they currently offer legal sports betting and horse racing, the proprietors feel that full casino licenses would allow the state to safeguard its gambling market. Proponents contend that the current infrastructure at these sites could support their growth into comprehensive casino ventures.
We’re already doing sports betting on site, we’re already betting on horse racing on site. Gambling is already happening. How is this any different?
Vin Gopal, New Jersey Senator
The initiative also represents a defensive strategy. A new casino is set to be constructed 20 miles away from The Meadowlands, as part of a planned gaming development near Citi Field in Queens. Supporters fear this project could persuade New Jersey gamblers to cross the river instead of making the multi-hour journey south to Atlantic City.
Atlantic City Remains Firmly Opposed to Casino Expansion
Despite these worries, opposition from South Jersey is still powerful. Atlantic County officials caution that casinos elsewhere in the state would harm the area’s already fragile gaming sector. Atlantic City establishments warn that fresh competition would jeopardize years of recovery since the pandemic. Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. and other local leaders have indicated they would strongly oppose any effort to break the region’s exclusive hold on casinos.
To mitigate these concerns, the proposed bill contains measures to aid the resort city. A minimum of 10% of tax revenue generated by any new northern casinos would be allocated to Atlantic City tourism and economic development. However, the wider political landscape is also still unclear. In 2016, voters turned down a comparable plan by a four-to-one margin, highlighting how many residents continue to value the city’s special status.
At the same time, other ideas are being proposed that could transform the state’s gaming economy. Atlantic County executive Dennis Levinson recently stated that the financial responsibility for casino-related programs should not rest entirely on Atlantic County taxpayers. He argued that all 21 counties must contribute since the gambling industry produces advantages that reach across the whole state.