A new study from Stockton University’s Polling Institute finds that 45% of New Jersey voters oppose a constitutional amendment on the ballot this November that would allow wagering on games involving in-state college sports teams or college games taking place in New Jersey.
40% of respondents said support the proposal while 14% are unsure.
The poll surveyed 552 registered New Jersey voters between Sept. 17-25.
Earlier this year the state Assembly passed legislative approval to put a question on the ballot this November asking voters whether sports betting should be expanded to include wagering on New Jersey schools like Rutgers and Seton Hall or on college games held in the state, such as the NCAA Tournament.
New Jersey is slated to host the men’s NCAA Tournament East Regional in 2025.
The latest numbers from Stockton’s study show an increase in voters who support allowing on in-state college teams and college games held in the state. A July study from Fairleigh Dickinson University found that 25% of voters were in favor the constitutional amendment, while 49% opposed and 26% were either undecided or declined to answer.
Already the nation’s largest legalized sports betting market, New Jersey sportsbooks could potentially see millions of dollars more wagered on games involving the state’s in-state schools.
Rutgers and Seton Hall’s men’s basketball programs often compete in the NCAA Tournament. Wagers on their games alone could generate a bundle of handle among the schools’ fans and alumni.
Arguably even more significant is the possibility of allowing New Jersey bettors to wager on college games that take place in the state, regardless of whether an in-state school is competing. The 2025 NCAA Tournament East Regional to be held at Newark’s Prudential Center would result in a bevy of wagering activity, as would other NCAA-sanctioned events played in the state.
New Jersey voters will have their say on election day, Nov. 2.
