The Meadowlands Racetrack, located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is at the forefront of a potential gambling revolution in the state.
Two new resolutions were introduced in the state legislature that would expand gambling beyond the confines of Atlantic City for the first time.
Senate Concurrent Resolutions (SCR) 31 and 66 propose allowing slot machine gambling and casino gaming at the Meadowlands Racetrack in East Rutherford, as well as at other horse racetracks across the state.
This move has been discussed for months and could redefine New Jersey’s gambling landscape if approved by voters in a potential November 2026 referendum.
Current Legislative Efforts and Proposals
SCR 31 and SCR 66 are crucial in the conversation about expanding gambling venues in New Jersey.
SCR 31 would grant the legislature authority to establish slot machines at racetracks, while SCR 66 specifically targets casino gaming expansions at both the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park.
These proposals respond to growing competition from New York’s newly established casino licenses near the New Jersey border, which are poised to attract a significant portion of the gambling audience.
Passing these resolutions requires substantial legislative approval and voter consent. Lawmakers are pushing for their passage by June 2026 to prepare for a year-end ballot.
If successful, this would represent the first expansion of casino gaming outside of Atlantic City—a prospect that excites proponents and concerns critics.
The History of Gambling in New Jersey
Gambling in New Jersey isn’t a new concept; it has a storied past.
Beginning with early lotteries in the 17th century, the state saw the advent of modern gambling when Atlantic City legalized casinos in 1976.
This move transformed Atlantic City into a gambling hub, driving massive revenue and tourism growth. However, as neighboring states opened their own casinos, the monopoly—and allure—of Atlantic City’s casinos began to wane.
Such competitive pressures have prompted discussions about expanding gambling to other parts of the state, spotlighting the Meadowlands Racetrack as a prime candidate. But that’s not all.
New York Applying Economic Pressures
New Jersey's legislative push arises amid significant economic pressures from New York's recent expansion of its gambling facilities.
The three New York licenses—Bally’s at Ferry Point in the Bronx, Hard Rock’s Metropolitan Park near Citi Field in Queens, and Resorts World NYC’s expansion in Queens—were granted in December.
These sites sit just minutes from New Jersey via bridges and tunnels, targeting the same New York metro market that drives much of Atlantic City’s visitation and the Meadowlands’ sports betting handle.
Local advocates see the Meadowlands Racetrack’s potential casino as a means to keep revenue within state borders. The proposal could generate over $500 million annually in new taxes and provide economic benefits like job creation, tax relief, and education funding. Backers, including Sen. Paul Sarlo, stress the importance of retaining “out-of-state dollars” and revitalizing the state’s horse racing industry.
However, the approval process requires overcoming significant hurdles. A constitutional amendment to allow this expansion requires either a supermajority in both legislative chambers or approval through voter referendums. Given the failure of a 2016 referendum, gaining public support is critical for passage.
Meadowlands Racetrack Poised to Change New Jersey's Gambling Landscape
The Meadowlands Racetrack stands on the brink of potentially becoming a central figure in New Jersey’s gambling industry.
These resolutions could signal a transformative shift for the entire state. As legislators and voters prepare to deliberate these changes, New Jersey faces pivotal decisions that will not only affect its gambling landscape but also its economic future, amid mounting pressure from neighboring states.
The outcome of these efforts will determine whether the Meadowlands can lead New Jersey into a new era of gaming.
