Esports betting could be coming to New Jersey soon

New Jersey is looking to allow esports betting, and it might be arriving in the state very soon.

Bill sponsor Assemblyman William F. Moen Jr. explained that the state wants to “embrace” the emerging industry of esports betting, which lawmakers believe will provide plenty of new revenue for the state. The bill unanimously passed an Assembly committee review last week. If it continues to move forward, it would approve wagering on esports events and allow operators to host esports betting events locally in New Jersey.

“We do expect this to certainly be a revenue generator, but I think even bigger than that, this is a recognition that esports is here and it’s here to stay,” Moen said.

In 2024, gaming revenue reported by brick-and-mortar casinos and racetracks was $6.3 billion, a 9% increase from 2023. This includes esports revenue. This is expected to increase further when esports betting activities are permitted as well, creating an additional financial windfall for the state of New Jersey should this approval move forward.

New Jersey aims for safe esports betting in the state

Assemblywoman Claire Swift, a co-sponsor of the bill, said that all esports wagering would operate under “strict oversight,” as outlined in the bill. There are strong consumer protections and age verifications in place to protect younger people. By legalizing esports betting and providing regulation, Swift stated that consumers will be protected and integrity of competitive gaming will remain in tact.

Moen said that some colleges and universities in New Jersey are also offering esports-related degrees, further bringing esports to mainstream culture in the state and emphasizing New Jersey’s place on the industry’s cutting edge.

“It’s more than just pulling in revenue from another source. The goal here is to create a responsible structure for this to occur and also, if there’s an opportunity, to create that funding for a pipeline of training for an emerging industry,” Moen said.

Some in the New Jersey community have expressed concerns with esports betting being legalized, since its an industry largely focused on younger people. The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey responded to the bill with concerns over an increase in gambling amongst the youth. Moen replied to concerns by explaining how the Assembly Tourism, gaming, and the Arts Committee will be taking steps to address gambling issues across the state, including among young people.

The bill has been referred to the Assembly Oversight, Reform and Federal Relations Committee for the time being. Its proponents will aim to see it moved through swiftly to bring esports betting locally to New Jersey sooner than later.