S 597 New Jersey Senate · 2026-2027 Regular Session

Revises penalty for underage gambling to be civil penalty; provides for all associated fines to be used for gambling addiction treatment.

This bill changes penalties for underage gambling in New Jersey from criminal charges to civil fines. It directly affects underage gamblers (under 21), casino licensees/employees who allow underage gambling, and caregivers who permit it. Key provisions set tiered civil penalties: up to $500 for a first offense, $1,000 for a second, and $2,000 for subsequent offenses. All collected fines must fund gambling addiction prevention, education, and treatment programs through the Department of Human Services. The bill removes criminal penalties while redirecting fines to support treatment services.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2026 Last action Jan 13, 2026
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Jan 13, 2026
Introduced
Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
upper
2 primary · 3 co-sponsors

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