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The image shows a man playing a slot machine with the words "Jackpot" on it. He is surrounded by a...
The image shows a man playing a slot machine with the words "Jackpot" on it. He is surrounded by a board with text and pictures of fruits, suggesting that he is playing online casino games.

New Jersey cracks down on illegal betting with sweeping gambling reforms

New Jersey has tightened its gambling laws with a new crackdown on illegal betting and unlicensed online casinos. Governor Phil Murphy signed Assembly Bill 5447 into law, giving regulators stronger powers to shut down fraudulent operations and impose heavy fines on offenders. The law now bans proxy sports betting for wagers of $1,000 or more unless the bettor keeps full control of the bet. Using inside information to place sports bets has also been criminalised. These changes aim to close loopholes in the state's gambling regulations.

Sweepstakes casinos and unlicensed iGaming platforms have been outlawed under the new rules. However, sweepstakes contests can still operate legally if they provide a free-play option and limit paid entries to purchases under $20. Running an unlicensed 'online gambling resort' is now classified as a third-degree crime. Regulators can now seek court injunctions to halt illegal operators and issue escalating fines. First-time offenders face penalties up to $100,000, while repeat violations can result in fines of $250,000. Prediction markets, such as Kalshi, may also be affected by the expanded definition of gambling in the state. As of 2024, no other US states have introduced similar strict measures against online gambling fraud. While Arizona has taken action against illegal platforms like Kalshi, New Jersey's new law stands as the most comprehensive update in the country.

The legislation gives New Jersey regulators more authority to combat illegal gambling. Operators violating the rules now face severe financial penalties and potential criminal charges. The law aims to protect bettors while ensuring stricter oversight of the state's gambling industry.

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