New Jersey Senate panel advances bill to replace underage gambling penalties

New Jersey's Senate Judiciary Committee has advanced S-597, a bill that would replace criminal penalties for certain underage gambling violations with civil fines. The measure is sponsored by state Senator James Beach.

At present, New Jersey treats illegal casino entry or wagering by a person below the age of 21 as a disorderly persons offense. The source notes that this "can carry a fine of $500 to $1,000 and up to six months in prison." Minors below 18, meanwhile, go through the juvenile delinquency system rather than the adult courts.

S-597 would set civil fines at up to $500 for a first offence, $1,000 for a second offence and $2,000 for a third or subsequent offence.

Penalties collected would be paid into the state's General Fund for appropriation by the Legislature to the Department of Human Services, which would direct the money to compulsive gambling prevention, education and treatment programmes meeting department criteria.

Beach said the change is intended to avoid giving young people criminal records while addressing gambling-related risk earlier. He said: "While studies have shown that young people are more vulnerable to developing gambling problems, punishment through the criminal justice system could saddle them with criminal records. Our efforts are better spent focusing on behavioral changes that may prevent future addiction."

Beach said the link between fine revenue and treatment funding is a central part of the proposal. He said: "By replacing criminal penalties with civil fines and directing that revenue towards gambling addiction prevention, education, and treatment programs, we will help young people avoid gambling-related problems in the future."

The report is based on reporting by New Jersey Senate Democrats.