New Jersey Casino Expansion Proposed Outside Atlantic City

New Jersey lawmakers may soon decide whether two of the state’s major racetracks can offer casino-style gaming. A new proposal aims to open the door for slot machines and table games at Monmouth Park and the Meadowlands, both located in North Jersey.

Good to know

• Bill SCR130 could allow casino games at Monmouth Park and the Meadowlands.
• Atlantic City currently holds the state’s exclusive rights to casino gaming.
• Revenue from new casinos would be spread across public sectors, including education and pensions.

Senator Vin Gopal recently introduced an amendment to Bill SCR130, which would end Atlantic City’s exclusive hold on casino gaming in New Jersey. The legislation calls for allowing slot machines and table games at two racetracks outside the city limits—Meadowlands in East Rutherford and Monmouth Park in Oceanport.

Under current law, only Atlantic City can host casino operations. Gopal’s bill would amend the state constitution to let lawmakers approve and regulate casino games in other areas. The legislation does not define which types of games would be allowed, leaving that up to future regulations.

Tax Revenue Plan Already Outlined

The bill includes a plan for how tax revenue would be distributed if new casinos open. According to the proposal:

• 45% would support property tax relief,
• 20% would fund special education programs,
• 10% would go to the state’s pension system,
• 10% would be allocated for cost-of-living increases for retired state workers,
• 10% would promote tourism in Atlantic City,
• and 5% would aid the horse racing industry.

Supporters say the revenue could help address multiple state funding needs while also strengthening the financial position of racetracks.

Pressure Mounts from Neighboring States

The push for expansion comes at a time when Atlantic City casinos are under pressure. In Q1 2025, the city’s casino industry posted a 15% year-over-year profit decline. Many blame rising competition from online gambling and nearby states expanding casino operations.

To stay competitive, Atlantic City operators spent roughly $200 million last year on improvements outside gaming—adding new restaurants, hotel upgrades, and live entertainment, based on a 2024 industry report.

New casinos at Monmouth Park or Meadowlands would likely need similar investments in non-gaming offerings to attract visitors and remain competitive, analysts say.

New York Casino Plans Add More Pressure

The timing of the bill aligns with developments across the Hudson River. New York is preparing to award three casino licenses for the downstate region, with potential locations in areas like Times Square, Yonkers, the Bronx, and Brooklyn. Those projects could pull gambling dollars away from New Jersey, especially from racetracks that rely heavily on regional traffic.

Some lawmakers argue that expanding casino access within New Jersey is the best way to stay competitive. Others worry the move could weaken Atlantic City’s standing as the state’s central gambling destination.

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