New Jersey online gambling market only around for two more years?
While New Jersey casinos are hoping to extend online gambling for 10 more years, it seems like they will be approved for only 2 more, according to the latest news as per NJ.bet.
As New Jersey’s internet gambling market is often referred to as the best in the nation, they were hoping for another 10 years of operations. However, according to lawmakers, they can only hope to receive 2 more years. The reasons behind this decision are not yet made public, as the committee could not be reached for comment after the decision was made.
What’s even more confusing is the fact that a state Assembly committee approved a bill according to which online gambling in NJ could run through 2033, but the lawmakers reduced this period to 2025 without even making the changes public.
To be fully transparent, the final vote on the matter has not been made yet, and it’s unclear when the final decision may be reached. But considering that online gambling in New Jersey has earned as much revenue as the five other states that also allow it combined, maybe the final verdict will – in the end – be more in favor of the original proposition.
Sports betting finally legalized in Vermont
Republican Gov. Phil Scott has signed a bill into law Wednesday that finally makes sports betting legal in the state of Vermont.
Since sports betting is already legal in almost three dozen states, the fact that Vermont also made it on the list resonated well among its populace.
“I first proposed Vermont legalize sports betting several years ago and I’m happy the Legislature has come to an agreement, as well,” Scott stated. “We know many Vermonters already participate in the marketplace and bringing it above board provides important resources and consumer protections.”
The Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery will, under the law, regulate sports wagering through contracts. These contracts will be signed between two and six sports betting operators.
The overall plan is to have the department work closely with the Department of Mental Health and, together with them, provide a report regarding the impact of sports betting on problem gambling to the Legislature.
Aside from this, the operators will also need to come up with and provide a responsible gaming plan annually. The plan will need to include materials and resources related to problem gambling, as well as house-imposed player limits and self-exclusion programs that will be made readily-available to and targeted towards gamblers that exhibit any problem behaviors.
Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Advisory Committee to become effective July 1, in Virginia
Virginians will finally have more responsible gambling resources they can reach for, effective July 1, 2023.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and Republican state Sen. Bryce Reeves signed this decision into law as a part of SB 836. Reportedly, these measures will aim to put a stop to gambling addiction by providing necessary helpful resources to individuals struggling with it.
The lottery, casinos, sports and horse race betting and charitable gaming will be overseen by the committee to ensure that all of the rules and regulations are being followed and no detrimental activities are taking place.
Furthermore, the state will appoint representatives from each of the gambling sectors, as well as choose a representative from non-profit Virginia Council on Problem Gambling. The state will also appoint a problem gambling prevention coordinator, as well as an executive director of a local community services board.
It will be up to these individuals to ensure that they assess and evaluate the mental well-being of gamblers, and recognize signs of any mental health issues or problem behavior among them.
On top of this, a self-exclusion program will be banning individuals from placing bets for a set amount of time, in case problem behavior is recognized.
Finally, Virginia will also offer a problem gambling hotline and Gamblers Anonymous meetings to any individual in search of such resources.
But that’s not all coming from Virginia
As of late, Virginia is experiencing a noticeable increase in youth gambling rates. In April, Reeves noted that close to two-thirds of Virginians, aged 18-25, gambled during March.
He proceeded to comment:
“As a father, it pains me to see how our youth have been affected by gambling and all the ills that come with it. The Virginia Problem Gambling Hotline has seen a 143% increase in calls over the last few years, which I feel is deeply representative of this growing issue.
I look forward to the committee’s establishment this July and the progress they will make in ensuring Virginians are given the knowledge, tools and abilities to prevent and overcome gambling addiction.”
What’s even more concerning is the fact that 21% of high school students admitted to placing a bet in 2022.
Considering this, it’s safe to say that the bill aiming to provide more responsible gambling resources comes just in time.
