On Monday, November 15, two New Jersey Senate Committees approved bills which have the purpose of giving a positive jolt to the state's gaming industry

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According to a report by capemaycountyherald.com, the Senator Ray Lesniak-sponsored Bill S-490, which would authorize Atlantic City casinos to operate intrastate and international internet wagering operations, was approved by a vote of 10-1.

Bill S-2394, sponsored by the Budget Committee Chair, Senator Paul Sarlo, was unanimously approved by the Budget Committee. Bill S-2394 would dedicate an amount equal to the sales and use taxes associated with horse racing, breeding, training, raising or boarding to programs designed to improve and promote thoroughbred and standardbred horse breeding in the state. The bill will now head to the full Senate for consideration.

Bill S-11, which would allow for the creation of an Atlantic City Tourism District and bolster the powers of the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) was approved by a vote of 3-0. The bill was sponsored by Senate President Sweeney, Committee Chair Whelan, and Senator Jeff Van Drew.

Bill S-12, which is sponsored by Senators Whelan and Lesniak, was approved by a 4-0 vote. The bill will now head to the full Senate for consideration. Bill S-12 would clearly delineate casino regulation powers between the Division of Gaming Enforcement under the Attorney General, and the Casino Control Commission.

For complete explanation of the bills, and to read Senator comments regarding the legislation, read the capemaycountyherald.com article in its entirety by clicking here.

(With files from capemaycountyherald.com)