New Jersey Casino Expansion: Resolution Filed to Bring Slots and Table Games Beyond Atlantic City

A bill to initiate a referendum to allow casinos in North Jersey has been filed
The bill seeks to allow casinos at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park racetracks
There will be much opposition to the casino expansion push

A proposed constitutional amendment filed in the Trenton capital aims to revolutionize the states gaming landscape by allowing gambling outside of Atlantic City. If this amendment passes, it will trigger a massive wave of casino expansion across New Jersey, paving the way for new gaming opportunities that could significantly impact and bolster the state’s economy.

Sports complex — Image by pasja1000 from Pixabay

Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 130 (SCR130) was filed by state Senators Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth) and Paul Sarlo (D-Bergen). These two Democrats represent regions where they intend to introduce slot machines and table games.

If SCR130 is passed by the New Jersey Legislature and greenlit by voters through a statewide ballot referendum, it would allow the Monmouth Park and Meadowlands racetracks, which currently host sportsbooks, to apply for casino licenses from the state’s Casino Control Commission.

SCR130 states, “It shall be lawful for the Legislature to authorize, by law, the specific kind, restrictions, and control of casino games to be conducted at the Meadowlands Racetrack and the Monmouth Park Racetrack and to license and tax such operations and equipment used in connection therewith.”

The proposed racetrack casinos would be taxed at the same rate as those in Atlantic City. Here’s how the gaming taxes would be allocated:

45% for homeowners’ property tax reductions
20% for special education funding
10% for the state’s pension system
10% for cost-of-living adjustments for state employees
10% to promote tourism in Atlantic City
5% for horsemen

As New York plans to issue three casino licenses for the New York City area by the end of the year, concerns are surfacing about the potential financial impact on Atlantic City, amplifying fears that casino taxes could decrease.

Path to Legalization

In New Jersey, constitutional amendments led by the legislature require a three-fifths majority in both chambers. Specifically, this means securing 24 votes in the Senate and 48 in the Assembly.

If this support is achieved, the ballot would be presented to voters during a statewide election. A simple majority could amend the New Jersey Constitution to allow casinos at Monmouth Park and the Meadowlands.

Currently, SCR130 is pending review by the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee. However, it is worth noting that the proposal faces significant barriers, particularly from the established nine casinos in Atlantic City and local community organisations.

Atlantic County Democratic Chair Michael Suleiman has already expressed strong opposition to the resolution:

“The answer to New York’s casinos isn’t to unlock a floodgate for North Jersey casino proposals that cannibalize our own market while doing little to steer visitors away from New York… allowing casinos in North Jersey could lead to another four closures, devastating our regional economy and laying off thousands of workers. This isn’t a partisan issue — it’s a personal one for everyone who cares about New Jersey’s future. This constitutional amendment needs to be thrown in the trash where it belongs.”

Historical Context

Previously, Hard Rock International collaborated with Jeff Gural at Meadowlands Racetrack when they attempted to legalise North Jersey casinos back in 2015. Since then, Hard Rock has invested close to a billion dollars into Atlantic City, while also seeking one of the three downstate casino licenses in New York with billionaire Steve Cohen at Citi Field.

It remains uncertain whether Hard Rock will re-engage its interest in North Jersey. Nevertheless, as nine bids prepare for those anticipated downstate NYC casino opportunities, North Jersey could emerge as an attractive option for bidders who are unsuccessful in crossing the Hudson.

In summary, while the SCR130 resolution offers exciting new prospects for casino gambling in North Jersey, it encounters considerable opposition and obstacles. The outcome of ongoing legislative discussions and public sentiment will ultimately dictate whether these expansions materialise.