Lobbying group praises N.J. online gambling bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- (PRESS RELEASE) -- Michael Waxman, executive director of the Safe and Secure Internet Gambling Initiative, a leading advocate for Internet gambling regulation, today issued the following statement applauding passage by the New Jersey legislature of Bill S 490, which will allow Atlantic City casinos to offer authorized online gambling to residents of New Jersey.

"We applaud the New Jersey legislature for adopting legislation to regulate and control Internet gambling activity, creating a common-sense framework for protecting consumers, creating jobs and stimulating the state's economy.

"This vote is a positive step by creating a licensed and regulated online gambling environment with appropriate consumer protections for New Jersey residents – a much better approach than the failed attempts led by the federal government to prohibit the activity. New Jersey will also be poised to capture new, much-needed revenue from the activity.

"While it is encouraging to have a common-sense effort to regulate Internet gambling activity emanating from New Jersey, one of the leading land-based regulatory jurisdictions in the world, an all encompassing federal regime is the optimum solution for controlling the activity and protecting every American.

"Once the bill becomes law, New Jersey will be at the forefront of efforts to regulate Internet gambling activity in the U.S. and will be setting an example for how regulation can work. We hope other elected leaders at the federal and state levels take notice and follow suit."