College Sport

Betting On NJ College Sports: All Updates Are Here

Andy Brown
Published: Jul 15, 2021 Updated: Jan 17, 2022

If the latest poll can be considered an indication, then it can be said that New Jersey bettors might not be interested in expanding sports wagering to include all the local college teams. Last month the Assembly issued a resolution, termed as SCR-133. Voters were asked whether or not they wish to allow all the gamblers to wager on college sports teams, including the N.J. teams and other collegiate games that are played within the state. Currently, these are forbidden under N.J.’s 3-year sports betting law, and it will require voter approval to make it legal. 

The Reports From The FDU Poll

Sports Futures BetsLast week, during the FDU Poll, many voters had opposed the 2-to-1 margin, and only 25% of them supported the change. The rest of the 49% have voted by saying that they oppose the wagering on college sports, and about 23% of voters stated that they are pretty unsure. But the elections are still 4 months away, and people have a lot of time to have a change of heart. 

Professor of Politics and Government at the Fairleigh Dickinson University, Dan Cassino, stated that the majority of the voters are not sure where they are standing. He also said that the supporters have to change their minds if they want to get this passed. 

What Happened In 2011?

Back in 2011, the voters amended the constitution to enable wagering on college and professional sports, except for the ones played within the state and those involving the N.J. teams. Due to the federal ban, the state of New Jersey couldn’t allow wagering to take place. But in 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated the federal law preventing bets. In New Jersey, sports wagering is allowed online, with land-based casinos and racetracks. 

The legislature passed the resolution to place a question on the November ballot with unanimous support. Only four Assembly members and one senator voted against it. The Appropriations Committee and Senate Budget conducted a meeting on the measure last November, which lasted three minutes with no speaking, even though it was the same day when the committee endorsed the bill. During that particular meeting, around 7 people associated with wagering have shown their support towards the bill. 

What Did Senator Paul Sarlo Have To Say?

Senator Paul Sarlo, who sponsored the measure in the Senate, said that sports betting has become pretty popular within the state. He also stated that everyone could do sports wagering safely, securely, and with great integrity. Senator Sarlo also said there would be some of the top teams in 2025, and he’s sure that there will be many activities across the country, including betting.

What’s Next? 

Supporters who have to expand sports betting in New Jersey have to explain what they are proposing and make sure that all the voters buy their arguments. It will be highly beneficial for New Jersey to allow betting on college football teams, just like the other states are doing.

Written by:

Andy is a skilled recreational gambler for more than 11 years. His primary focus is on the regulated US online casino and poker markets. Editor-In-Chief at Gamblerzz.com.
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