TRENTON – As internet gaming became available to the public in New Jersey today, Senators Raymond J. Lesniak, D-Union, and Jim Whelan, D-Atlantic, prime sponsors of legislation allowing Atlantic City’s casinos to offer online gambling, released the following statements:
Senator Lesniak:
“This is the start of a great opportunity for Atlantic City and the casinos. Internet gaming will send an economic lifeline to the casinos by producing more jobs and additional revenue and it will generate more financial activity for Atlantic City and the state.
“This is the future of gaming. It will position our casinos to be the ‘Silicon Valley of internet gaming’ by placing them at the hub of future expansion into other states and lays the foundation for a $50 billion international marketplace. We look forward to making internet gaming a success and on building on that success for a future that is bright and prosperous.”
Senator Whelan:
“This is a historic day for Atlantic City and New Jersey. Gaming is an integral part of our economy and we must stay ahead of the times to ensure the viability of this industry for years to come. Gaming competition from neighboring states has been a real cause for concern as casinos in New York and Pennsylvania have cut into New Jersey’s gaming market-share, but with this innovative approach to wagering, New Jersey residents can have access to gaming right at home.
“When internet gaming is a success in New Jersey, it will bring in thousands of high-tech jobs into the Atlantic City region and billions of dollars in revenue to the state. Now that it is available to the public, I look forward to seeing this program grow and flourish.”
