This bill amends the penalties for underage gambling in New Jersey by changing the classification of offenses from disorderly persons offenses to civil penalties. Specifically, individuals under the legal gambling age who enter or wager in a licensed casino or simulcasting facility will now face a civil penalty of up to $500 for the first offense, up to $1,000 for the second offense, and up to $2,000 for any subsequent offenses. Additionally, casino employees or licensees who allow underage individuals to gamble will also be subject to the same civil penalties.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that all fines collected from these civil penalties will be directed into the General Fund, specifically for appropriation to the Department of Human Services. These funds will be used to support prevention, education, and treatment programs for compulsive gambling, aligning with the criteria established by existing legislation. This shift aims to reduce the criminal implications of underage gambling while simultaneously addressing gambling addiction through dedicated funding.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5:12-119