Governor Phil Murphy said this week he is open to discussions about expanding New Jersey casinos beyond Atlantic City. The comments came during a press conference in Trenton following a recent report from the Stockton University Poll that shows growing public support for allowing casinos in other parts of the state. Murphy emphasized that while he is not currently pushing for expansion, but he is willing to engage in conversations about the possibility. Atlantic City has held an exclusive license for casino gaming since 1978, and all nine of the state’s casinos are located within the resort town. Previous attempts…

A year after the Coronavirus restrictions and lock-downs began, New Jersey and Nevada casinos are excited to welcome back half the guests they are usually allowed. First, in New Jersey, Governor Phil Murphy is allowing increased indoor capacity at Atlantic City nine casinos via an Executive Order. They will be allowed to operate at 50% occupancy beginning the morning of March 19th. Meanwhile in Nevada, Governor Steve Sisolak and his “Roadmap to Recovery” will also allow Vegas casinos and others in the state to increase capacity limits 50% occupancy starting today. New Jersey’s neighbor to the north, New York, quickly…

Nearly one month after Las Vegas welcomed guests back, Atlantic City casinos are set to open their doors in time for Independence Day weekend. There is one big catch, however: The properties must operate at 25% occupancy. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said casino patrons must wear face masks and undergo some level of health screening. “If any visitor refuses to comply with these simple safeguards, you will be escorted out of the casino,” the governor said. “We are not going to tolerate any knuckleheads trying to ruin it for those who want to enjoy themselves responsibly and those who…

Governor Chris Christie isn’t planning to intervene in the closings of three New Jersey casinos over the coming weeks but says he’s committed to finding a way to bolster the region’s economic health. Casino workers facing jobs losses gathered outside the Ocean City Music Pier and chanted “save our jobs” and “five-year promise” as the governor arrived for a town hall meeting Thursday. Christie, in 2010, unveiled his first-term recovery plan for New Jersey casinos and said the tourism district needed five years to reverse its fortunes. Christie told the audience that a Sept. 8 summit he has scheduled for…