New Jersey Lawmakers Again Considering Casinos Outside Atlantic City
A decade after New Jersey voters rejected expanding casinos beyond Atlantic City, discussion has resurfaced among developers and lawmakers. The renewed push centers on potential casino development in the northern parts of the state.
Owners of the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park racetracks have been urging officials to support a campaign legalizing casinos there. The proposal reflects concern that gambling revenue could shift to New York City.
Related: New Jersey Governor Supports Expanding Casinos Beyond Atlantic CityNew York is preparing to award licenses for three new casinos in the city. Developers in New Jersey fear those projects could draw gamblers and tax revenue across state lines.
Supporters argue northern casinos could retain local gamblers already traveling to New York. The concept has gained impetus as the neighboring state advances multibillion-dollar casino developments.
Casino lobbyists in New York City have already begun organizing opposition strategies. However, the most entrenched resistance remains within South Jersey political leadership.
Atlantic County Democratic Committee chairman Michael Suleiman described New York casinos as an impending threat to the region's gambling market. South Jersey leaders remain firmly opposed to any expansion outside Atlantic City.
Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small Sr. said business and political leaders would actively oppose new casinos in Monmouth or Bergen Counties. The city remains a major economic driver despite declining market dominance.
Gov. Mikie Sherrill has identified Atlantic City revitalization as a priority. State officials have indicated the administration is willing to examine proposals affecting the industry.
Jeff Gural, managing partner of the group that owns the Meadowlands, said discussions with Atlantic City stakeholders would be necessary. His group is advocating a plan designed to protect the resort's interests.
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Political divisions and legislative steps toward a potential referendum
Assembly Democratic Majority Leader Louis Greenwald said the idea warrants consideration but lacks sufficient detail. Lawmakers want clearer projections regarding potential revenue and economic impact.
Industry analysts note that casino markets often reach saturation. New properties can divert revenue from existing venues rather than generate new demand.
Legal scholar Marc Edelman said additional casinos may simply shift market share rather than expand overall betting activity. Atlantic City previously experienced closures when competition increased.
To permit casinos outside Atlantic City, voters would need to amend the state constitution. Two senators, Vin Gopal and Paul Sarlo, introduced legislation to try and make that happen.
The proposal could reach voters as early as the November election. Gopal confirmed he has discussed the issue with Alex Ball, chief of staff to Governor Sherrill.
The plan would allow casinos at the Meadowlands and Monmouth racetracks, where sports betting already operates. Gambling activities are already present at both sites through racing and sportsbook wagering.
Under the legislation, at least 10% of tax revenue from new casinos would support Atlantic City tourism funding. Developers have also suggested license fees similar to New York's proposed $500m payments.
New Jersey voters previously rejected a similar casino expansion proposal in 2016. That referendum failed by a four-to-one margin, reinforcing Atlantic City's constitutional exclusivity.
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