New Jersey lawmakers consider bill to expand esports betting options, allowing competitors to wager on themselves

The New Jersey Legislature is reviewing a bill that would expand betting opportunities in competitive video gaming, allowing players to wager on themselves or their teams while creating additional betting outlets, or "skins," dedicated to esports.

A key provision of the bill would allow competitors to place bets on their own performance or that of their team, provided they meet the minimum legal gambling age of 21 in New Jersey. Additionally, the bill gives the Division of Gaming Enforcement authority to designate a casino or authorized venue hosting an esports event as the exclusive operator for placing wagers on that competition.

The bill cleared an Assembly committee on Thursday afternoon and now moves to the full Assembly for further consideration. It must pass both the Assembly and Senate before being presented to Governor Phil Murphy for final approval. 

Under current law, casinos and racetracks in New Jersey can offer traditional sports betting through a limited number of online platforms. Companies looking to specialize in esports wagering must partner with an existing casino or racetrack licensee, using one of their three permitted online sports betting skins. The proposed bill seeks to establish two separate esports-only skins, making it easier for businesses to enter the esports betting market.

Esports has grown rapidly into a multi-billion-dollar global industry, with professional video game competitions attracting millions of viewers and participants worldwide. Many gambling analysts view esports as an emerging market for betting, with New Jersey already positioning itself as a leader in the sector. The state's Division of Gaming Enforcement has previously sanctioned multiple esports betting events, setting a regulatory framework for the industry.

Assemblyman William Moen, D-Camden, Gloucester, noted that esports is gaining traction not only as a competitive activity but also as an academic discipline in New Jersey. "A number of New Jersey's colleges and universities are now offering esports-related degrees or certificates," Moen said.