New Jersey Lawmaker Pushes for Betting On College Sports

New Jersey, Assemblyman Michael Venezia has introduced a legislative proposal aimed at amending the state’s constitution to allow betting on all college sports and athletic events, including those involving in-state institutions. The initiative, known as Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 140.

New Jersey’s current gaming laws prohibit sportsbooks from offering odds on in-state colleges and universities, a restriction that has long been a point of contention for many stakeholders. Assemblyman Venezia’s introduction of ACR 140 represents a renewed effort to lift this ban, building upon previous legislative attempts that have faced mixed success.

In 2021, a similar amendment spearheaded by Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo was rejected by 57% of New Jersey voters, despite passing both the Assembly and Senate with overwhelming support. Venezia’s proposal seeks to learn from the previous setback and present a renewed case to the electorate, hoping to garner broader public acceptance for this controversial issue.

ACR 140, if approved, would amend New Jersey’s constitution to permit licensed operators partnering with casinos and current or former horse racetracks to offer odds on all college sports and athletic events, including those involving in-state institutions.

The proposed ballot question for voters will read: “Do you approve amending the Constitution to permit wagering through casinos and current or former horse racetracks on all college sport or athletic events?” This measure will be put to a general election vote in November, with a required notice of the proposed bill to be published in newspapers across the state.

New Jersey has faced issues with compliance regarding the existing ban on in-state college betting. In August 2023, the Division of Gaming Enforcement fined Fox Bet $80,000 and PointsBet $25,000 for accepting bets on prohibited events involving Rutgers, Monmouth, Fairleigh Dickinson, Seton Hall, and Saint Peter’s. Venezia’s proposal aims to address these enforcement challenges by providing a clear legal framework for college sports betting.

Alongside the push to lift the in-state college sports betting ban, lawmakers in New Jersey are also focusing on the regulation of college player prop betting. Earlier this year, Senator Kristin Corrado introduced Senate Bill 3080, proposing a ban on college player prop markets to ensure a safe environment for student-athletes, coaches, and team officials.

This legislative effort follows a call by NCAA President Charlie Baker for a nationwide ban on player prop betting, citing concerns over the potential for exploitation and the need to protect the integrity of collegiate sports.

The debate surrounding the regulation of college player prop betting highlights the delicate balance between preserving the integrity of collegiate athletics and capitalizing on the growing interest and revenue potential of sports wagering.