As neighboring states aggressively expand their gaming industries, a New Jersey lawmaker is making a fresh push to bring slot machines to our state's horse racetracks — and he's extending an olive branch to Atlantic City casinos in the process.
Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-Morris, Passaic) announced Thursday, May 1, 2026, that he's renewing his call to pass SCR-31, legislation that would allow racinos — racetracks with slot machines — to operate in New Jersey. The move comes as New York City moves forward with plans to build three new casinos by 2030, threatening to siphon gaming revenues away from the Garden State.
"Atlantic City has publicly decried expansion of gambling in New Jersey citing a cannibalization of their industry. Too late. The surrounding states are doing that right now," said Senator Pennacchio.
A Partnership Proposal
Rather than viewing racinos as competition, Senator Pennacchio is proposing that Atlantic City casinos become partners in the venture. Under his plan, a consortium would be formed from Atlantic City casinos, with their stake proportional to their presence in the shore resort.
"My proposal would give casinos in Atlantic City a buy in into the New Jersey Racinos," Senator Pennacchio explained. "The larger their presence in Atlantic City, the larger their presence and influence in new racinos. Instead of standing by and complaining about efforts to expand gambling venues in New Jersey they should join us and reap in their rewards. While they complain, neighboring states are going full speed ahead."
The senator has long advocated for racinos at the Meadowlands racetrack, viewing them as essential to keeping New Jersey competitive in the regional gaming market.
Where the Money Would Go
Under Senator Pennacchio's bill, New Jersey residents would vote on a constitutional amendment to establish slot machine gambling at horse racetracks. The revenues generated would be dedicated to three key areas: strengthening the state's public employee pension system, supporting Atlantic City's gaming industry, and aiding New Jersey's horse racing industry.
"Quite frankly, we're leaving money on the table by not allowing racinos," Senator Pennacchio continued. "Adding slot machines at horse racetracks would be an immediate economic engine, generating new revenues for the state while supporting existing gaming interests and local tourism."
The Competitive Landscape
The urgency behind the proposal stems from aggressive expansion by neighboring states. New York and Pennsylvania have both made significant moves to capture more of the regional gaming market, putting pressure on New Jersey to evolve its own offerings.
"New Jersey must stay competitive with our neighbors, and the easiest way to do that is expand our gaming industry," said Senator Pennacchio. "No one does gaming better than New Jersey, but New York and Pennsylvania are making aggressive moves to capture more of the market. We have to evolve to keep those gaming revenues, jobs and tourists here in the Garden State."
The proposal represents a potential turning point in New Jersey's approach to gaming expansion — one that could unite previously competing interests around a shared economic opportunity. Whether Atlantic City casinos will embrace the partnership remains to be seen, but the competitive pressures from surrounding states show no signs of slowing down.
