Jersey waits on gov to OK sports bets

TRENTON — New Jersey’s casinos and racetracks are waiting for the starter’s gun to begin offering sports betting now that the state Legislature has approved a bill to legalize it.

All eyes were on Gov. Phil Murphy on Thursday, immediately after the state Senate and Assembly unanimously passed a bill to allow sports betting three weeks after winning a U.S. Supreme Court case that cleared the way for all states to do so.

Casinos and racetracks itched to begin taking bets on baseball, basketball, soccer and other sports. But the Democratic governor would not signal whether he would sign the bill — or even when he might decide.

“He said he wants to act quickly, but the legislation will be subject to the same thorough review that all legislation sent to him for signature is subject to,” said his spokesman, Dan Bryan.

While some top lawmakers said they expected the Monmouth Park racetrack to begin taking bets Friday, others said they expected Murphy to consider the bill during the weekend before acting.