This bill seeks to enhance the regulation of gambling operations in New Jersey by prohibiting unlawful gambling activities, particularly focusing on the sweepstakes model of wagering. It defines key terms such as "game," "prize," and "sweepstakes," and establishes that offering or conducting a sweepstakes where participants pay something of value is considered unlawful gambling. The legislation outlines civil and potential criminal liabilities for operators and sponsors of such sweepstakes, while also providing exceptions for certain types of sweepstakes that meet specific criteria, such as offering free entry methods. The bill increases penalties for maintaining illegal gambling operations, particularly online gambling resorts, elevating the offense from a crime of the fourth degree to a third degree, with fines ranging from $50,000 to $100,000.

To enforce these new regulations, the bill grants the Division of Consumer Affairs and the Division of Gaming Enforcement enhanced authority to impose civil penalties, seek injunctions, and conduct investigations into unlawful gambling practices. Penalties for violations can reach up to $100,000 for first offenses and $250,000 for subsequent offenses, with each day of violation treated as a separate offense. The bill also revises existing laws related to swindling and cheating, introducing new offenses associated with sports wagering, and ensures that unlawfully acquired funds are returned to affected individuals, particularly senior citizens. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen consumer protection and regulatory oversight in New Jersey's gambling landscape.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5:12-113