New Jersey bill ends criminal charges for under-21 gamblers
The Senate Judiciary Committee passed the bill 11-0, sending it to the Budget Committee next.
The hit
New Jersey’s Senate Judiciary Committee voted 11-0 to advance a bill that would scrap criminal charges for underage gambling in favour of civil fines, according to The Press of Atlantic City. Senate Bill 597 would still ban anyone under 21 from gambling, but adults & casino staff who allow it would also face penalties.
Why it matters
The bill moves gambling enforcement away from the courts & into the regulatory system, with the money raised going to the state’s Department of Human Services rather than punishing young bettors through the justice system. For casino operators, it adds a fresh compliance risk: staff who let minors gamble face the same fines as the minors themselves.
The record
| Committee vote | 11-0 in favour, Senate Judiciary Committee, 15 October |
|---|---|
| First offence fine | up to $500 |
| Second offence fine | up to $1,000 |
| Third & subsequent offence fine | up to $2,000 |
| Sponsors | Sen. James Beach (D) & Sen. Vince Polistina (R) |
| Prior attempt | S3972 proposed December 2024, lapsed before passage |
What happens next
The bill moves to the Senate Budget & Appropriations Committee next, then needs full Senate & Assembly approval before it can reach the governor’s desk.
Sources: NJ Bill Moves Forward To Replace Underage Gambling Charges With Fines
Named in this story? Reply to newsdesk@infobets.com & we publish it.
18+. Betting involves risk. If gambling is a problem for you or someone close to you, help is available.
Discussion
Ask a question, add useful context or share a source. Keep it relevant & respectful.
Add a comment
Comments are reviewed before publication.