New Jersey Introduces Stricter Penalties for Illegal Sports Wagering
TRENTON, NJ—New legislation in New Jersey would mandate stringent penalties for sports wagering violations. The Division of Gaming Enforcement or the New Jersey Racing Commission will enforce these penalties on any sports wagering licensee or operator found accepting bets on prohibited events.
Violators are subjected to multiple penalties, including the forfeiture of all wagers placed on the prohibited event. Additionally, fines ranging from $20,000 to $100,000 will be imposed, along with a suspension from sports wagering activities for up to 10 days.
Funds collected from these penalties by the Division of Gaming Enforcement will contribute to the Casino Control Fund, supporting the operational expenses of both the Casino Control Commission and the Division of Gaming Enforcement. Similarly, penalties collected by the New Jersey Racing Commission are directed to the State’s general fund, earmarked for the Racing Commission’s expenses.
The law specifically defines “prohibited sports event” to include any collegiate sport or athletic event occurring in New Jersey or any event involving a New Jersey college team, regardless of the location. It excludes international sports events where minors are not the majority participants but includes all high school sports, electronic sports, and competitive video gaming.
A prohibited sports event includes all high school sports events, electronic sports, and competitive video games but does not include international sports events in which persons under age 18 make up a minority of the participants.”