Public comment period underway for New Jersey regulations
Publication of legislation triggers 60-day window for feedback
New Jersey’s online gaming regulations have been officially published, marking the beginning of a 60-day period for the state Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) to receive public comments.
The window for feedback closes on 2 August, while the date Atlantic City casinos will be eligible to accept online bets will be announced at least 45 days in advance.
After the public comment period the DGE, which last month hired former Maltese Lotteries and Gaming Authority CEO Mario Galea as a consultant, will progress to final adoption of the regulations, following a review of, and response to, all comments.
The regulator revealed in March it is aiming to open the state’s online gambling market on 16 November .
The current proposed regulations propose a 15% tax on gross revenue, with a minimum licence fee of $400,000 for the first year. Annual renewal costs have been set at $250,000, with an annual responsible internet gaming fee of $250,000 also applicable.
The rules also permit players to be placed at a table “where all patrons have been selected at random”, which would allow for fast-fold poker games. Other regulations include measures to ensure player security such as a requirement to hold funds in segregated bank accounts.
New Jersey became the third state to legalise online gambling after Governor Chris Christie signed Senator Raymond Lesniak’s bill into law in February.