Fans of horse racing would be permitted to place bets on special mobile devices under legislation introduced by New Jersey Assembly Republican Ronald S. Dancer

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“Smart phones and other mobile devices have transformed our daily lives and we can bring those modern conveniences to the horse racing,” Dancer, R-Ocean, Burlington, Middlesex and Monmouth. “This will allow racetracks to keep up with the times, gain a competitive edge over other states and attract new fans.”

The bill, A-2610, would authorize the New Jersey Racing Commission to develop rules and regulations for mobile gaming devices at race tracks. The devices would allow patrons to place bets and receive information about wagers, outcomes and other information about racing.

The bill stipulates that the device must be inoperable outside the racetrack facility, users must be of legal age with a mobile gaming account, all wagering is conducted within the racetrack facility and all wagering is compliance with existing law.

“This brings a modern twist to one of the oldest forms of sport, that could revolutionize horse racing in New Jersey,” Dancer said. “This would be the first major innovation to horse gaming since the betting window, eliminating the need to stand in line to place a bet and cash out winnings as bettors have done for decades.

“New Jersey will be a model for the rest of the country on how to modernize horse racing,” Dancer added.

A similar proposal allowing hand-held gaming devices at Atlantic City Casinos has been approved recently by committees in the Senate and Assembly. Nevada is the only other state to allow such devices in casinos.

The bill has bipartisan support from Assemblyman John Burzichelli.

(New Jersey Assembly Republicans)