This morning just before 10:00am, OnlinePokerReport broke the news that the Division of New Jersey Gaming Enforcement confirmed to them the following information. The proverbial “on” switch will be flipped for real money online poker on Tuesday November 26th at 9:00am EST.
Over the past several weeks as the date of November 26th has drawn closer, the Internet has been buzzing with speculation. Would this rumored date of November 26th actually hold up? What will the regulatory structure look like? What operators will be first to market with their platforms? Although we don’t have all the answers yet, some of the smoke has been lifted today.
So with that, let’s take a look at what we do know based upon the various media reports coming out today. As mentioned, the DGE has confirmed that November 26th at 9:00am will be the go live time for real money play within the New Jersey borders. The DGE also announced today that online operators will need to participate in at least 5 days of a “soft play period”. This period will allow operators to beta test their platforms and ensure all gaming standards are being met. It is also being reported that although in beta, the poker rooms will not be open to the public, instead only by special invite.
And finally the DGE also posted the long awaited final version of online gambling regulation on NJ.gov here. This 106 page document reads like a standard U.S. government regulatory document, but does contain a much clearer picture for us on how the market is shaping up. <—— A great read if you have an hour to kill!
So who will the operators in New Jersey be?
This is the million dollar question everyone wants to know. Unfortunately this information has not officially been released yet. However, the DGE promises to list the companies and URL’s on their website soon. Nonetheless, industry speculators and experts are almost certain that Caesars Interactive powered by the 888 Holdings platform will be a major player. And why not? Caesars already operates WSOP.com in Nevada, and interestingly enough also has entered into a joint venture and partnership agreement with Wynn Interactive to specifically target New Jersey.
Although there are still “unknowns” about exactly what regulated online poker will look like in New Jersey, it is official, we are going to find out come Tuesday morning November 26th at 9:00am.
Jeremy Enke is a contributing author at 4flush.com. Jeremy has been working in the online poker industry since 2002 and is best known for his work on the marketing side of the online poker industry. Aside from founding the worlds largest poker affiliate community at PokerAffiliateListings.com, Jeremy also produces a weekly radio show, writes for major publications, and is a regular consultant for several iGaming companies.
100% up to $3,000 Bonus
Bovada is our most recommended ONLINE CASINO and POKER ROOM for US players with excellent deposit options. Get your 100% signup bonus today.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.