New Jersey racetracks want a slice of online gambling pie

New Jersey’s Monmouth and Meadowlands racetracks, struggling to prosper in an increasingly competitive gambling environment, may have a little legislative help in prospect following moves this week by some state lawmakers.

They are proposing a new bill that will permit the tracks to partner up with existing land casino operators in order to offer trackside online gambling activity.

Supporters say that the “internet cafes” thus formed will increase revenue for the state’s struggling horse-racing industry while allowing casinos to expand their internet gambling operations.

But, like the recently failed attempt to expand gambling generally beyond the boundaries of Atlantic City (see previous reports) the move could face opposition,

Dennis Drazin, who advises Monmouth Park, told reporters that the plan envisaged a situation in which the tracks would lease out space in their venues to casino operators in Atlantic City who already offer online gambling options.

“This is a win-win for both the racetracks and the casino industry,” he said. “This would be purely at the will of the casinos. I believe this would give casinos a chance to grow their business. It would give them a chance to grow their online business. They don’t have to do it if they don’t want to.”

Drazin said at least two casino operators that he did not identify had expressed interest in the concept, although the Casino Association of New Jersey declined to comment on the proposal.

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