V for Veto?

The USA remains of the most interesting case studies for online gambling. Since the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act) was passed in recent years, there has been a mass exodus from the USA of online casinos. Since then, the European gaming market has grown significantly – especially the UK. But there are some fantastic developments taking place in the USA, especially in New Jersey. As fate would have it, New Jersey is the first American state to legalize online betting.  With Atlantic City being the second biggest gambling destination in North America – second to Las Vegas – business is apparently on the upswing. The move to allow New Jersey casinos to provide their wares to players online, within the state is certainly exciting news.

How Lawmakers Made Gaming History in the USA

When the idea was floated to allow this type of gaming legislation to players in the Garden State, the Governor was ready to sign, seal and deliver this piece of legislation. According to the Interactive Media Entertainment & Gaming Association, there is significant progress in legal Internet betting in the state. The Governor of New Jersey – Chris Christie – is however set to veto the bill that would legalize Internet betting. This is in direct contradiction to the popular belief that Christie was in favour of legalizing betting. This would significantly affect the economy, much to its detriment. These initiatives would have helped boost the NJ economy which is suffering through these tough times.  Here’s where it gets interesting though – Christie had until February 24^th to veto the bill or else it would go into law. Note that the Assembly can ignore the Governor’s veto and even approve the bill. Republicans are typically opposed to approving legislation that would pave the way for legalization of online gaming. Part of the reason why Christie may never support this piece of legislation is that he is a Republican stalwart and if he runs for president in 2012, he may be perceived as disloyal to party values. The tide is starting to turn in the USA though, because online poker is being perceived as a game of skill and not a game of chance. This would mean that poker sites like Full Tilt Poker would be able to market their wares to USA players without fear of contravening gambling legislation.