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If sports betting were restricted to the casinos, race tracks, and possibly off-track betting parlors, we might see more customers in Atlantic City, which would increase tax revenues from food, beverage and room sales, and also from possible action in the casino or on pari-mutual wagering.
This would slow the increase in compulsive gambling, and eliminate a minors use of a parent’s credit card, to bet illegally.
In order to truly compete with the multitude of illegal international betting sites, NJ might have to add some more betting parlors, in approving communities, to provide a convenient way to enjoy the amenities of a proper sports betting environment. Maybe adding poker or some video gaming terminals like Illinois has done at any establishment with a liquor license.
These parlors should be owned and operated by the AC casino companies and pay the same tax as online gaming sites do now.
New Jersey should also be studying any impact that sports betting from home is reducing their lottery customer spending. The state keeps 40% of each lottery wager but earns an estimated 1.6% on an online sports bet (approximately 20% tax on 8% sports betting hold). This means the state loses around $38 on each $100 a customer removes from lottery purchases to bet on sports.
If the state and operators insist that sports betting be online, at least restrict it to game outcomes, and allow the in-game and proposition betting just to live sports betting parlors.