TRENTON – Southern N.J. Assemblyman John Amodeo is on board with the recommendations Gov. Chris Christie made while vetoing conditionally the bill authorizing Internet gaming in Atlantic City casinos.
“The Governor’s expressed concerns can easily be addressed,” said Amodeo, R-2, regarding the veto Thursday of S1565.
“I have already spoken to Assemblymen Burzichelli and Ramos, who serve with me on the Assembly Regulatory Oversight and Gaming Committee. We accept the Governor’s proposed amendments and will work together to get these passed by the Legislature as soon as possible and back onto the Governor’s desk for consideration.”
Under the bill, Atlantic City’s 12 casinos would run the online gambling operations from Atlantic City, and pay a 10 percent tax on winnings, up from the normal 8 percent tax on traditional casino revenue.
Among other things, Christie recommended extending the existing prohibitions on casino-related employment for state employees and the Legislature to Internet gaming licensees; additional funding to benefit compulsive gambling treatment; and an annual analysis of problems associated with these new games.
“It’s a critical piece of legislation for Atlantic City and New Jersey as a whole,” said Amodeo. “This is a big step, and I think the Governor is right in being cautious but these changes will help get this done. This bill will allow Atlantic City to compete more effectively, increase tax revenues and save thousands of jobs.”
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