New Jersey Considers Decriminalizing Underage Gambling

By Jerry Smith Staff Writer Updated: 12/25/2024

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Jerry’s greatest advantage is his extensive experience on the casino floor. His time as a casino manager taught him everything about what makes a player tick. Besides being a skilled poker player, he has deep knowledge of all live table games and gambling regulations in the US.

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Different symbols of laws and regulations

Lawmakers in New Jersey are considering decriminalizing underage gambling in the state. If the legislative proposal is approved, the criminal charges will be replaced with fines for individuals under the legal age requirement of 21 years old. This is another step in a broader movement towards more rehabilitative treatment of youth offenses.

Current Legal Framework

According to the current status quo, underage gambling in casinos in Garden State is considered a disorderly offence. It carries the possibility of a $1,000 fine and up to six months of jail time. In addition to that, individuals who allow or facilitate underage gambling are subject to similar penalties. This approach has faced criticism for being too harsh and questionably effective.

Proposed Legislative Changes

The proposed legislation will make underage gambling a civil offense in New Jersey. A tiered fine system would be introduced, including a $500 fine for a first offense, $1,000 for a second, and $2,000 for subsequent offenses. The collected fines will be used for gambling prevention and education programs.

The concern I had initially was about reducing the severity of the punishment…But the fact that all the money will go to problem gambling treatment programs changed my mind.

Assemblyman Don Guardian a Republican former mayor of Atlantic City

By reducing the consequences of a financial penalty, lawmakers and proponents of the bill hope to promote educational initiatives and raise awareness about gambling among youth rather than criminalizing their behavior. Opponents, on the other hand, are worried about the increasing issues related to gambling addictions following the gambling expansion in the state.

It’s becoming clear that not only in New Jersey but across the whole country, the increasing number of gambling addictions is a real threat that might lead to financial strain and other social issues. It’s all about finding the right balance and creating a safe environment for players, which is far from a simple task to complete.

Every individual who engages in legal gambling activities should do it responsibly. We suggest you set strict time and budget limits and stick to them. If you notice any of the early signs of compulsive gambling, seek help immediately. There are many organizations that can help, including the National Council on Problem Gambling, GamCare, and Gambling Therapy, to name a few.

Legislative Status and Broader Implications

The proposal has gained traction within the New Jersey Assembly and is actively discussed among lawmakers. If enacted, it could signify a substantial shift in New Jersey’s approach to gambling laws and youth engagement in gaming activities. We can only hope that the change will have a positive impact.

We’re yet to see further rapid expansion of the US gambling industry, which has its fair share of positives and negatives. We’re yet to see how federal and state regulators and lawmakers in the country will handle the surge. Make sure to follow this space, where our gambling experts will keep you well informed.