In an attempt to boost the state's $3 billion casino market, online betting was finally legalized in New Jersey after the Internet Gambling Law was signed by Governor Chris Christie in February this year. New Jersey is the third state, after Nevada and Delaware to have done so. New Jersey is seen as a lucrative spot for internet wagering based on its size, and with considerations given to its law encompassing many forms of gambling.

Regulators are pushing for a statewide online poker and other gaming start by late March, or could be extended to the earliest part of 2025.

Land-based Casinos and Online Operators Join Forces

For a gaming permit to be awarded to online operators, they are required to partner with a land-based casino located within the state. Among the first brick and mortar casino operators who have expressed plans to partner with an Internet gaming provider were Borgata and Caesars Entertainment. Tropicana Casino and Resort and the Golden Nugget followed suit.

All 12 land-based casinos took the initial steps to secure Internet gaming permits and have identified their prospective online partners. It is speculated that they have agreements already drawn up, or are still in the middle of a possible partnership. Completed applications need to be filed by March 29, the deadline set by New Jersey regulators.

Lisa Spengler, a spokeswoman for New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) states, "For applicants that meet this filing deadline, the Division will be in a position to determine if they can commence Internet gaming operations by the go-live date."

It is reported that the Trump Taj Mahal Casino has entered into a partnership with Las Vegas-based Ultimate Gaming, the same company that launched online poker in Nevada in April.

Others have partnered with overseas companies such as Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa teaming up with Bwin.Party Digital Entertainment Plc (BPTY), which is based in Gibraltar.

Caesars Entertainment, the largest casino operator in Atlantic City with four properties, will offer online games with European gaming operator 888 Holdings Plc.

When online gambling is in full effect, players will be able to sign up for an account via the Internet, and fund it through several methods such as debit or credit cards and checking accounts. Gamblers can place bets from anywhere in New Jersey using desktop PCs, laptops, smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices.

Market Boost

The year 2025 has been a busy year of online gambling in US shores. Legislation has debated on the nature of regulation, and yet has surpassed differing political views which culminated in the passing of online gambling bills into laws.

According to projections by market analysts, the annual revenue for the state of Nevada's online gambling market will yield $50 million to $250 million. New Jersey's state budget anticipates $160 million in tax dollars alone, suggesting that it will generate $500 million to $1 billion in total revenue annually.