NJ Gov. gives conditional OK to internet gambling

Gov. Chris Christie vetoed legislation that would permit internet gambling, but has now issued a conditional veto statement that will move the initiative forward. Christie's recommendations include authorization, but with a limitation of 10 years.

"With these goals in mind, I have concluded that now is the time for our State to move forward, again leading the way for the nation, by becoming one of the first States to permit Internet gaming,” the governor said in his statement.

Christie said after 10 years, the state's leadership will get to decide to renew or amend the legislation. Internet gambling also would be taxed at 15 percent rather than 10 percent and compulsive gambling programs would be better funded, under the governor's proposal.

Lawmakers now will have to write a new bill incorporating the governor's feedback, which Christie will presumably sign. Regulatory matters, including licensing casinos and their Internet gambling affiliates, may take six months or more before gamblers place a wager online in New Jersey.

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