NJ sports-betting bill hits the homestretch
New Jersey politicians moved forward with identical sports-betting bills on Monday that are expected to pass the full Legislature on Thursday.
Gov. Phil Murphy will then likely sign the bill a day or two later, Assemblyman Ralph Caputo (D-Belleville) told The Post.
“He may take a day to look at it and review it with the attorney general and make sure it’s technically correct.”
Then, Monmouth Park is expected to almost immediately open up for sports betting in time for the NBA Finals game.
Changes made Monday before voting included deciding not to license mobile sports betting for 30 days after sports betting begins at casinos or racetracks.
The pro sports leagues were looking for an “integrity fee” to help monitor games for unusual betting activity.
New Jersey politicos added an amendment Monday that will require regulators to consult with the pro sports leagues and listen to suggestions.
“My opinion is the leagues should offer their help for free,” Caputo said, explaining why there are no integrity fees.
New Jersey could be setting the standard on how to deal with the leagues since the Supreme Court on May 14 ruled that the national ban on sports betting was unconstitutional.
“It’s a watershed moment,” Caputo said, referring to the Assembly gaming and appropriations committees and the Senate appropriations committee on Monday all approving the bill.
The MLB and the NBA, which fought unsuccessfully for the integrity fees, declined comment.