It has been reported that the New Jersey Assembly passed bill A-3972 on Thursday, March 26, a piece of legislation that calls for Atlantic City casinos that simulcast out-of-state races to be given the power to negotiate signal fees.

News of the bill passage comes courtesy of a report by the Press of Atlantic City that has quoted Assemblyman Ron Dancer as saying “We only have once casino left where you can bet on and watch horses. This is a matter of survival.”

The Bergen Record has also run an article on the bill passage that quotes the bill’s co-sponsor, Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo, as saying “As we work to restore a wounded Atlantic City, it’s critical that we do everything possible to maximize gambling opportunities for customers. This legislation, a reasonable fix to a major issue for casino simulcasting providers, will help Atlantic City continue providing services to those who enjoy watching and betting on races in our casinos.”

The bill now moves to the desk of Governor Chris Christie.

(With files from the Press of Atlantic City and The Bergen Record)