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 specifies that any sweepstakes requiring participants to 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 legally conducted sweepstakes that meet specific criteria, such as offering a no-cost entry method. Additionally, the bill expands the definition of illegal gambling to include online gambling resorts and increases penalties for maintaining such establishments.

To enforce these regulations, the bill empowers the Division of Consumer Affairs and the Division of Gaming Enforcement with the authority to impose civil penalties, seek injunctions, and conduct investigations into violations. Penalties for unlawful activities 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 includes provisions for restoring unlawfully acquired property and allows for the collection of delinquent amounts through civil actions. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen consumer protection and ensure fair practices within New Jersey's gambling industry.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5:12-113