New measure to allow gambling at Atlantic City’s airport

The measure was proposed by Assemblyman Tim Eustace (D-Bergen) and it aims to allow slot machines at the airport.

US.- A resolution by state Assemblyman Tim Eustace (D-Bergen) that seeks to put slot machines in the waiting areas at Atlantic City International Airport, was recently introduced  in the New Jersey Legislature.

The measure ACR177 would place a question on the ballot asking New Jersey voters to approve amending the state constitution to allow the machines at the airport, which is technically located in Egg Harbor Township.

Eustace admitted he got the idea from Nevada, where McCarran International Airport near Las Vegas and Reno-Tahoe International have slots that travellers can play while waiting to take off. He added that it “makes sense” that Atlantic City, the seaside gambling resort long considered Vegas’ little brother, should follow sin city’s steps.

“One of the things we’re charged with is creating innovative revenue streams,” Eustace said. “We already have gamblers that are coming into Atlantic City and they’re just sitting around for a couple of hours. Why not tap that revenue?”

For Eustace’s question to be placed on the ballot this November, both houses of the state Legislature, the Assembly and the Senate, would have to approve it by three-fifths majorities. Otherwise, it could be placed on next November’s ballot if it’s approved by simple majorities in consecutive legislative sessions.