New Jersey has taken one step closer to legalising the practice of betting online, with last week’s referendum results showing that the residents of the state are overwhelming in favour of sports betting – 66% for, 34% against.

It seems the verdict is in. Earlier this year New Jersey’s Senate and House passed a bill that would have made it the first state to reintroduce intrastate internet gambling including betting online, but Governor Chris Christie vetoed it, saying he had a number of significant concerns about the constitutional viability of the bill.

There were concerns that he would also veto a sports betting bill, but the Governor indicated that he would respect the people’s opinion on the issue. Much to the relief of betting companies like Bet365 and 888Sport, it seems that the people’s opinion is loud and clear – they want the opportunity to engage in betting if they so choose.

In fact the Governor acknowledges that illicit betting occurs and that many of his residents are engaging in illegal activities with individuals involved in organised crime. He actively supports the legalisation of sports betting since it means being able to regulate the industry and the state benefits from the tax revenue.

It is hoped that if such a bill passes it may assist Senator Lesniak with passing a revised online gambling bill. If so, New Jersey could lead the way for the other states.