Online gambling companies would have to meet a higher standard of regulatory review under a new bill introduced in New Jersey.
The bill was approved by the state’s Assembly Tourism, Gaming and Arts Committee and would require online gambling operators to get full casino licenses. By requiring full licensing, the online companies would be required to meet a much higher level of regulatory scrutiny.
The bill is seen as a response to PokerStars application to operate in the state. Though the company has since been acquired by Amaya Gaming, its past problems with the U.S. Department of Justice have been a stumbling block for licensing in New Jersey. A license is expected for the online giant under Amaya, but has been slow in coming.
Assemblyman Ralph Caputo, chairman of the committee and sponsor of the bill, argued that PokerStars and all other online gambling companies should be held to the same licensing standards as Atlantic City’s brick-and-mortar casinos.
“I was never a fan of internet gaming, to be honest with you,” Caputo told the Press of Atlantic City. “Those results have been very disappointing. But if we’re going to do it, we should do it right,” Caputo said in an interview with the Press of Atlantic City.
Online companies are currently only required to have a casino service industry license approved by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement at present. It’s the same type of licensing required of casino vendors.
“You’re not selling linens, you’re not selling cups, you’re operating an Internet casino and the integrity of those games has to be on the same level as casino gaming,” Caputo told the paper.
The bill, however, has no companion bill in the State Senate and is not likely to become law soon. Caputo said he is seeking a sponsor for a Senate bill.
