ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) – New Jersey voters would be asked in November whether to approve two new casinos in the northern part of the state under an agreement unveiled Friday by state lawmakers.
The deal announced by Senate President Steve Sweeney calls for a November 2016 referendum on whether to approve two new casinos in separate northern New Jersey counties. The ballot question would not specify locations for either casino.
Tax revenue from the new casinos would go to help Atlantic City compensate from the expected loss of business; to each county and municipality for tax relief for senior citizens and the disabled; and to the state’s struggling horse racing industry. It does not specify the tax rate the new casinos would pay.
If voters agree to amend the state constitution to permit casinos beyond Atlantic City, it would mark the biggest change in legalized gambling since casinos began operating in the seaside resort in 1978.
It also would create an existential challenge to Atlantic City’s eight casinos at the same time providing them a lifeline of new revenue from hefty taxes the new casinos would pay.