New Online Sports Betting Bill Introduced
In late November, Chris Christie wanted to fast track the legalization of sports betting. He quickly signed the bill into law, but the big sports leagues (the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB) quickly stepped up and cried foul, causing the whole issue to be put on ice. Adam Silver, NBA commissioner, is in full support of the bill, and he wants to work with Chris Christie to establish some sort of framework to set it up. Chris Christie refused his help. Now, two men have stepped up and are hoping to get it legalized once and for all.
New Jersey Representatives Frank LoBiondo and Frank Pallone have introduced a brand new bill to legalize sports betting in not only New Jersey, but eventually, the entire nation. The concept of online sports betting appeals to many, such as Adam Silver, but they say that without any sort of framework, the idea would fail.
The proposed legislation would completely exempt New Jersey from the federal prohibition on sports betting. It would also give every other state a four year opportunity to introduce legislation to allow professional and amateur sports betting.
When asked to explain his decision, LoBiondo said “Increasing competition from neighboring states and the proliferation of off-the-books betting has left Atlantic City’s gaming operations at a disadvantage. Sports betting can help give our famed resort town a hands up.”
Indeed, it would, especially when coupled with no deposit bonuses – people would flock to New Jersey. It’d be easier to pass now than any other time, since New Jersey just adopted a credit card code specifically for online gambling.
As you can imagine, the NBA, NFL, NHL, and MLB are all strongly against the bill as it currently stands. With some tweaking, Adam Silver would undoubtedly be on board. However, as previously mentioned, Chris Christie doesn’t want anyone from the league’s assistance with this bill or getting it passed. I’m sure that LoBiondo and Pallone feel the same way.
The American Gaming Association isn’t letting US District Court Judge Michael Shipp’s recent ruling in favor of the leagues getting in the way. American Gaming Association president and CEO Geoff Freeman recently commented on the issue, stating that “The AGA is closely examining the current state of sports betting, the laws that govern it, and the best way forward for the gaming industry.”
Of course, the only way forward is.. well, forward. Legalizing and regulating online sports betting makes sense, and it’s a natural progression from where betting is now. Of course, a framework does indeed need to be established, but once that’s in place, the opportunity is limitless. Take a second and think about how many people talk about sports, whether it’s in person or via social media. Legalized and regulated online sports betting would be a great way for states to make a ton of extra money, and it’s almost guaranteed to be a success, reaching even those that are strongly against online casino games.