Key points:
- The SPGA claims the measure is “a reckless attempt” to ban sweepstakes gaming in New Jersey
- Instead, they recommend taking a balanced approach that protects players
The Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) has released a statement, saying that it “firmly opposes Assembly Bill 5447,” a measure seeking to eliminate New Jersey sweepstakes gaming.
The group has called for legislators to say no to the bill as well.
“We urge lawmakers to reject Assembly Bill 5447 and instead pursue the balanced regulatory approach previously introduced to protect consumers while allowing innovation to flourish in New Jersey’s dynamic gaming market,” the organization said.
The SPGA referred to the proposed legislation as “a reckless attempt to ban sweepstakes” in the Garden State.
The association commented, “This shortsighted legislation abandons the state’s progressive stance on gaming, directly contradicting the regulatory framework championed by Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese earlier this year—one that would ensure oversight, licensing, and taxation, bringing sweepstakes in line with other regulated gaming entities.”
The SPGA added that New Jersey has a history of setting the standard for entertainment within the gambling industry and said the state’s “forward-thinking approach should continue, not be replaced by outdated prohibition.”
In addition to opposing the bill, the organization affirmed its commitment to giving players a safe gambling space.
The group commented, “Our members take pride in driving innovation and providing safe, engaging digital entertainment to New Jersey consumers.
“As the regulatory landscape continues to evolve, we remain committed to working with policymakers to ensure that millions of American adults can continue enjoying their preferred gaming experiences within a properly regulated environment.”In related news, New Jersey legislators recently discussed reducing the penalties for and decriminalizing underage gambling, according to an Associated Press report.
Lawmakers are considering changing the current laws that criminalize gambling under the age of 21.
They have created a bill that would make underage gaming subject to fines rather than punishable under criminal law.
