Legislation authorizing use of mobile devices for betting on horse races was signed into law by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie Jan. 28.
The law allows the New Jersey Racing Commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow the use of mobile gaming devices by patrons at in-state racetracks. Patrons can wager on New Jersey races as well as those imported via simulcast from out-of-state tracks, the law states.
The law defines mobile gaming devices as "communications technology that allows a patron to transmit information to a computer to place a horse racing wager, and to receive and display information concerning wagers, outcomes, and other information necessary or required to be provided to the patron in connection with wagering."
Wagers must be placed on track. The law states devices can be used "within the property boundaries of an approved racetrack facility, including any restaurant, simulcasting room, and outdoor area, but excluding parking garages or parking areas of the approved racetrack facility."
The bill had broad support in the state Assembly and Senate.
"With this innovation, horse race fans could place a bet and collect their winnings without leaving their seats," said Republican Assemblyman Ron Dancer, whose district includes Monmouth Park and Freehold Raceway. "Allowing racetracks to take advantage of the technology that has transformed our daily lives will improve the experience for fans and give New Jersey facilities a competitive edge over other states competing for a share of the horse racing market."
Currently, only New Jersey residents can use the state's advance deposit wagering system, 4NJBets.