NJ Sets Online Casino License Deadline

The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has made a surprise announcement on online gambling, setting a tight deadline for all online gambling licenses.

Big Couple of Months

Atlantic City casinos will have until June 30 to apply for an online gambling license, while overseas and interstate software companies and operators will have until July 29, the gaming authority said. This would give regulators enough time to investigate all applicants, with more time for companies that are not yet licensed in New Jersey.

Earlier this month New Jersey published the main points of the state's landmark decision to approve intra-state online gambling. Under the regulations, players must create an account through an Atlantic City casino (either over the Internet or in person), while strict responsible gambling measures will be introduced.

Who is Applying?

Some of the largest American casino operators have already created partnerships with leading offshore online gambling providers. Borgata, the state's largest casino by gaming revenue has come to an agreement with bwin.party, while Caesars Entertainment will be applying for a license together with 888.

PokerStars is also being talked about as a potential player in New Jersey, but a recent court ruling may prevent it from handing in a valid application in time. However, the company is still hopeful of entering the market after CEO Mark Scheinberg last week reached a $50 million civil settlement with the US Department of Justice.