New Jersey Lawmaker Pushes to Lift Ban on In-State College Betting
New Jersey Lawmaker Pushes to Lift Ban on In-State College Betting
Betting news reports that Assemblyman Michael Venezia has introduced Resolution 140, aiming to lift the state’s ban on sports betting involving in-state colleges and universities. If passed, this proposal could allow New Jersey residents to place bets on their favorite local college teams, ending a long-standing restriction that many find ironic and frustrating. This move could significantly impact those interested in betting on NJ college sports.
The Push for Change
Assemblyman Michael Venezia’s introduction of Resolution 140 on June 28 marks a notable effort to amend New Jersey’s constitution. The goal is to permit wagering on all college sports or athletic events, not just those outside the state. The bill targets licensed operators in New Jersey who partner with casinos and current or former horse racetracks, making it a crucial step for betting on NJ college sports.
Currently, New Jersey’s active gaming laws prohibit sportsbooks from offering odds on in-state schools such as Princeton, Rider, Rutgers, Saint Peter’s, and Seton Hall. Consequently, local bettors cannot place wagers on these teams.This restriction has been a source of frustration for many local bettors who want to support their teams and bet online wherever they want. Lifting this ban would be a significant development for betting on NJ college sports.
Venezia’s proposal is not the first attempt to lift this ban. In 2021, Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo spearheaded a similar amendment, which passed both the Assembly and Senate with overwhelming support but was ultimately rejected by 57% of voters. This historical context sets the stage for a potentially challenging path forward for Resolution 140.
Addressing Concerns and Challenges
One of the major concerns surrounding lifting the in-state college betting ban is the regulation of college player prop betting. For example, earlier this year, Senator Kristin Corrado introduced Senate Bill 3080, which proposes a ban on college player prop markets to ensure a safe environment for student-athletes, coaches, and team officials. Additionally, the bill, co-sponsored by Senator Joseph Cryan, follows a call by NCAA President Charlie Baker for a nationwide ban on player prop betting.
The Big Question
The proposed ballot question for voters reads: “Do you approve amending the Constitution to permit wagering through casinos and current or former horse racetracks on all college sports or athletic events?” Voters will see this question in the general election vote in November, with the required notice of the proposed bill published in newspapers in each county.
The campaign leading up to the vote is expected to be intense, with supporters and detractors voicing their opinions.For many bettors, lifting the ban would finally allow them to place bets on their own college teams within the state. Moreover, it would enhance their engagement and support for local sports.However, detractors are concerned about the potential for increased problems and scandals associated with college sports betting.
The New Jersey betting market has been one of the fastest growing in the last year with an increase of 13.1%, reaching $2.57bn in revenue, much of it due to online gambling. If the ban is lifted, income could increase much more, especially from those interested in betting on NJ college sports.
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