Assembly committee releases A4756 after stakeholders warn language could sweep in ordinary amusement promotions

The Assembly Tourism, Gaming and Arts Committee on an undisclosed date released Assembly Bill A4756, which would prohibit amusement-game licensees from offering or advertising gambling activities, after members heard testimony that the bill’s language may be overly broad and could capture permitted promotions and emerging technologies.

Sponsor Assemblywoman Donlon said the bill responds to instances the committee identified where wagering-like activity is taking place in amusement venues and noted nearby states are considering similar measures. “That’s really where the aim is here,” Donlon said, describing reported situations in which underage patrons use cash-to-card systems to wager against other players.

Hillary Chebrough, director of government affairs for the Chamber of Commerce of Southern New Jersey, told the committee her organization will seek clarifying amendments because the bill “is written is a little overly broad and may have some unintended consequences that would capture some actions that are permitted.” Chebrough gave the example of seasonal promotions that award extra tickets for play, saying organizers do not want routine incentives captured by prohibitions intended to stop wagering.

Ed McGlynn of the Zeta Group, representing the New Jersey Amusements and Attractions Association, was recorded as opposed and did not testify in person. The sponsor acknowledged other stakeholders and said she is open to working with them and with the Senate sponsor to refine language.

During committee discussion members emphasized avoiding unintended effects on family-oriented arcades and shore businesses. Assemblyman McClellan and Assemblyman Guardian both said they were withholding a yea or nay vote pending clearer language; McClellan said he had spoken to shore amusement operators and remained “concerned about this being a little too broad.” Assemblywoman Donlon voted yes with amendments; Assemblyman Allen, Vice Chairman Calabrese and Chairman Mullen voted yes; McClellan and Guardian abstained. The committee released the bill.

The committee record notes the practical problem the bill targets: incidents where persons under the legal gambling age can use a machine/card system to enter cash, wager or compete against others, and then reload a card to continue play. The sponsor and stakeholders agreed to pursue clarifying amendments to exclude ordinary promotional incentives and to avoid hindering legitimate gaming-related technology that is not gambling.

The next step is for the sponsor and stakeholders to draft and circulate clarifying amendments before the bill moves further in the legislative process.