Online Gambling Bill Is Good for New Jersey

As Governor Chris Christie ponders whether or not to sign the New Jersey online gambling bill into law, he should think about why this legislation is good for his state.

Make no mistake, this is a momentous occasion - the Intra-State Internet Gambling bill passed both houses of the legislature last week, paving the way for New Jersey casino to be the first in the United States to accept bets online.

Beat Nevada: Atlantic City plays second fiddle to Las Vegas when it comes to land-based casinos, but the passage of this law would put New Jersey in prime position to dominate online gambling once the federal government regulates the industry.

Revenue: This is another no-brainer for Gov. Christie. A report published by iMEGA, the trade industry representing internet gambling, estimated that the new laws could raise up to $55 million in tax revenue for state coffers.

Employment: The jobless rate in New Jersey is still around 9.0%, which is way too high for any state to accept. So how can one justify knocking back the chance to open up an industry that would create thousands of jobs?

Because it's the right thing to do: It's time the US and its states treat their citizens like adults and allow them the option of gambling in a safe and secure environment online.