Statement of Congressman Frank LoBiondo on NBA Commissioner Silver’s NY Times Op-Ed Favoring Bringing Sports-Gaming to States Like New Jersey

“I am pleased to see that NBA Commissioner Silver has seen the wisdom of bringing sports betting out of the shadows and allow states like New Jersey to share in the benefits of a legal gaming option.  We have worked to pass legislation which would allow New Jersey to legally offer sports wagering, and we have also called for action to change to federal sports gaming law. 

"Legalized sports betting can help give Atlantic City a needed boost, providing yet another unique entertainment option for patrons in addition to the quality concerts, dining, shopping and beaches already there.  I’m pleased that Commissioner Silver has joined the ever growing chorus of elected officials and casino workers, as well as the overwhelming majority of New Jersey residents in pressing for legal, honest wagering on sporting events.” 

Congressman LoBiondo and Congressman Frank Pallone (NJ-06) introduced two bills in February 2013 that that would provide for changes in the law that would allow sports gaming in New Jersey. H.R. 626 (Pallone) would exempt New Jersey from current federal law and H.R. 625 (LoBiondo) opens a window in which all states can enact a law providing for sports gambling in their state until January 1, 2017. Both lawmakers are cosponsoring the other’s legislation.

National Basketball Association (NBA) Commissioner Adam Silver’s op-ed for the today’s New York Times entitled “Legalize and Regulate Sports Betting” can be found online at:  http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/14/opinion/nba-commissioner-adam-silver-legalize-sports-betting.html?ref=opinion&_r=0

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