New York is not only the sports betting capital of the United States but also the world. On the other hand, New Jersey’s sports betting market hasn’t slowed down even when the Empire State launched its mobile sports gambling market on January 8th. However, there is one restriction that raises a few questions moving forward.
New York and Jersey Ban Continues on In-State College Teams
College sports betting was a hot commodity during the March Madness Tournament. However, those
residing in the Garden State cannot place on in-state colligate programs. Bettors in New Jersey missed out on the opportunity to place wagers on Saint Peter’s as the team continued to break brackets.
This tournament’s Cinderella team made it to the Elite 8 before losing to the runner-ups in North Carolina. Many bettors who wanted to place wagers on the Peacocks had to cross state lines and go to neighboring states like Pennsylvania and New York.
New Jersey sports betting regulators imposed a fine on BetMGM because the bookmaker failed to note Rutgers as an in-state program last year. The bookmaker accepted less than $100 in wagers, which resulted in a $25,000 fine.
The Empire State also has the same rules as New Jersey in regards to betting on in-state teams. Other jurisdictions that enforce the same rules are South Dakota, Virginia, and Washington.
Sports Betting is Becoming Second Nature in the Tri-State Area
Big East Sr. Associate Commissioner Katie Willet believes that the enforced ruling just doesn’t make sense. In both states, many bettors place wagers on college sports, especially during the college football and basketball seasons.
Bettors across both states can cross a bridge to bet to place a wager on their respective in-state teams, especially those that live near the Hudson River. Nine of the 11 schools in the Big East are private Catholic institutions, but money and the potential revenue generated could be deciding factors.
Across the country, schools have decided to ditch their old ways and extend partnerships with sportsbook operators. For example, Michigan State has entered a multi-year partnership with Caesars Entertainment. Caesars Sportsbook will become the official sports betting partner of the Spartans.
Other states like Illinois allow college sports betting to take place at retail sportsbook locations as the state agreed with athletic directors. Several months ago, athletic directors were in favor of keeping the ban on college sports wagering because they believed it would harm student athletes’ performance in their sport and in the classroom.
Will the Rule Every Go Under a Change
New Jersey voters had the opportunity to reverse the rule during the 2021 election but decided to keep the ruling. However, the ruling doesn’t make sense for people Katie Willet as bettors must cross a bridge or a tunnel to place bets on in-state teams.
Senator Joe Addabbo may have the same plan, as he may examine the situation when the opportunity arises. In the meantime, both states have to rely on what bettors have traditionally done until legislation pushes for change.
