N.J. sports-betting question easily passes

A New Jersey ballot question to allow sports betting at Atlantic City casinos and the state's racetracks passed comfortably Tuesday by a 2-1 ratio.

With the question's passage, Republican Gov. Christie is poised to support legislation to make the activity legal in the state, but a federal law must still be overturned.

"With this referendum, we have an opportunity that gives the state more solid footing to challenge the federal ban on sports wagering outside of a few select places," Christie said before he voted in favor of Public Question 1.

Legislation under consideration in Trenton would prohibit wagering on any college team based in the state or on any collegiate game taking place in New Jersey.

Supporters say sports betting can pump at least $225 million annually in new revenue into the Atlantic City casinos and racetracks, and boost tourism, especially on weekends, at the ailing Shore resort - much the same way it fills casinos, hotels, and restaurants in Las Vegas.

Those who treat problem gamblers cautioned that it could generate something else, too.

"It will just make it more accessible for those who are predisposed to gamble, who normally would not call, say, a bookie," said C.P. Mirarchi, a gambling counselor based in Philadelphia who treats clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. "Some will be pushed over the edge.

"Sports betting is not escape gambling like slots," he said. "It's action gambling . . . and it will create a problem for some."

State Sen. Raymond Lesniak (D., Union), the legislature's main proponent of sports wagering, said he planned to introduce legislation Thursday that would authorize the New Jersey Casino Control Commission to begin the process for licensing sports betting at casinos and horse tracks in Mays Landing, Freehold, Monmouth, and the Meadowlands.

"I expect to get it to Gov. Christie for his signature before the end of the year," Lesniak said Tuesday night. "By the start of next year's NFL season, when the Eagles play the Giants, you'd better reserve your room soon in Atlantic City, because it will be packed, just like Las Vegas is now."