It was a long time coming, but legal sports betting is about to become a reality in New Jersey.Gov. Phil Murphy signed a law Monday allowing you to wager on sports games, both online and at the state's casinos and racetracks. It caps the state's nearly decade-long battle to tap into a market that has largely existed only in Las Vegas and through illegal bookies until now."This is the right move for New Jersey," Murphy said, "and it will strengthen our economy."So when and where can you bet? Here's a look at what you need to know:
When can you start betting?
Likely Thursday morning — at least at Monmouth Park racetrack in Oceanport. Technically, there is still one hurdle to clear. The New Jersey Racing Commission — which will license sports betting at tracks — is set to meet Wednesday to review regulations. After that, Murphy must ratify them, and tracks will be able to receive temporary waivers to begin accepting bets. If that happens, Monmouth Park will open its long-planned sports-betting operation at 10:30 a.m., with Murphy and other dignitaries placing the first wagers.
Which tracks will offer betting?
Monmouth Park is ground zero for sports wagers. In addition to being a key player in the state's lawsuit, the track and British bookmaker William Hill spent millions over the last few years prepping a sports betting parlor. And now it's ready to open Thursday morning.As for the state's other tracks? They're all expected to offer bets. Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford is hoping to be ready to go by football season. Freehold Raceway has yet to announce a date.The law also allows former racetracks to open sports betting. That includes sites in Atlantic City and Cherry Hill.Politico New Jersey reported Monday that the Cherry Hill site is included even though the track has been replaced by a residential and commercial development.
Borgata
File photo
Which casinos will offer betting?
All eight of Atlantic City's casinos are expected to eventually have sports betting operations. But so far, only the Borgata — the city's top gambling hall — is ready to go. The casino said Monday it's “moving ahead with all possible speed” to begin accepting bets, though it has yet to settle on a start date.The Golden Nugget said it should be ready by the beginning of football season. None of the other casinos have a timeline.
Kaynak:Nj.com