Published on: March 30, 2026, 12:37h.
Updated on: March 30, 2026, 12:39h.
- Legislators in South Jersey are against plans for casinos beyond Atlantic City.
- New casinos are set to open in downstate New York’s Bronx and Queens.
- NJ voters turned down casino proposals at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park in 2016.
A coalition of three New Jersey Congress members and 34 state legislators have reached out to Governor Mikie Sherrill (D) and the local Legislature, expressing their discontent with efforts aimed at expanding casino operations beyond Atlantic City.
The discussion surrounding potential casinos at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park racetracks has resurfaced following New York’s decision to license three casino establishments in New York City. These new venues in the Bronx and Queens could influence the gaming industry along the New Jersey Shore.
According to the group of state and federal elected officials from southern New Jersey, pushing legislation for extra casinos via a statewide referendum may not be the best approach.
In 2016, New Jersey sought public approval to introduce slot machines and table games at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park, but the proposal faced a strong rejection, garnering just 23% support compared to a 77% opposition.
In Bergen County, surrounding the Meadowlands, the vote was 73-27% against the proposal, while Monmouth County saw a 78-22% rejection of Public Question 1.
Significant Challenges for the State
Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-Morris) has persistently advocated for the introduction of slot machines in Northern New Jersey since the 2014-15 legislative sessions.
In 2026, Pennacchio introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 31, a bill proposing a statewide referendum to permit casinos at state-licensed horse racetracks this upcoming November. This resolution is supported by Senators Joseph Cryan (D-Union) and Declan O’Scanlon Jr. (R-Monmouth).
The bill also suggests allocating 30% of tax revenue generated from racetrack casinos to support the casinos located in Atlantic City, with an additional 7% directed towards programs intended for the recovery and enhancement of Atlantic City.
Although SCR31 was put forward in January, it has yet to progress within the Senate’s State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee.
Those who signed the letter to Sherrill and the Legislature emphasize that lawmakers should redirect their focus towards pressing state issues rather than expanding casino options.
“New Jersey faces considerable challenges, and our time as elected officials is better dedicated to addressing the genuine concerns of our constituents rather than pandering to affluent interests advocating for casino expansion against the strong will of Monmouth and Bergen County voters who overwhelmingly opposed this initiative,” the letter stated, as reported by the New Jersey Globe.
“We urge that any potential legislation is not brought to a vote. Should it pass, we will mobilize to defeat it in Trenton and at polling places, mirroring our successful campaign against this misguided idea a decade ago. We don’t just oppose expanded gambling; we vehemently reject it in New Jersey,” the letter concluded.
Impact of NYC Casinos on Atlantic City
Historically, Atlantic City has heavily depended on clientele from North Jersey and downstate New York. Nonetheless, with the new casinos located exclusively in Queens and the Bronx, the distance may result in limited effects on North Jersey residents and those in lower Upstate New York. The potential impact of Bally’s Bronx at Ferry Point Park, Hard Rock Metropolitan Park at Willets Point, and Resorts World NYC near JFK International Airport might be minimal.
Many Upstate New Yorkers are already utilizing the four Upstate New York casinos and/or tribal gaming venues. Downstate, New Yorkers also have access to video lottery games similar to slots, and online sports betting is available statewide.