Update: Lesniak Throws the Ball into Gov. Christie’s Hands

Update: Lesniak Throws the Ball into Gov. Christie’s Hands
Is the governor true to his word? Just before the end of the current session of the Legislature, first the Senate, and then the Assembly in New Jersey supported Ray Lesniak's state bill supporting the introduction of sports betting, authorizing the state to challenge the federal Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in court if necessary. Now the state may face federal court battle to overturn the PASPA, a law which prohibits sports betting in all but four states. The bill now stands before Gov. Chris Christie who stated before the November referendum that he would respect the will of the people. According to the bill advocate, State Senator Ray Lesniak, "These votes, by both houses of the legislature and the voters of New Jersey, mark the beginning of the end of the inequitable federal ban on sports betting. This time next year our residents won't have to fly to Las Vegas or visit their local bookie to bet on the Giants, Jets or Eagles to win the Super Bowl. They will be able to go to an Atlantic City casino, Monmouth Racetrack or The Meadowlands." In addition, Lesniak said that the state would win any court battle with the federal administration thanks to the impact of the 65 percent ballot support by New Jersey residents. "I guarantee a victory in the federal courts for New Jersey to be able to enjoy the same benefits from sports betting Congress has given to Nevada," he told reporters. The bill, from which Lesniak had to leave out elements that would have allowed residents to bet from their home computers or cell phones in order to ensure its progress before the end of the Legislative season, was warmly welcomed by Atlantic City casinos, which will become competitive with gambling houses in neighboring states thanks to the measure. On Jan. 9, the Casino Association of New Jersey stated: "If and when the federal ban is overturned, this law would permit casinos to accept wagers on sporting events, adding another amenity to enhance our ability to compete and grow as a destination resort. "Legalized sports betting would provide an economic boost for Atlantic City and the entire state of New Jersey, as it would attract more tourists to our city and its world-class entertainment, thriving restaurants, brand-name retail shopping and world-famous Boardwalk."
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