The New Jersey Casino Control Commission (NJCCC) is one of several governing bodies that oversees gambling in New Jersey. It frequently works hand-in-hand with the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) in deciding legal matters related to casinos and casino employees.
On this page, we’ll highlight some of the key operations of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, as well as the impacts the NJCCC has on the state in legal and economic matters.
What is the New Jersey Casino Control Commission?
The New Jersey Casino Control Commission is a three-member panel appointed by the governor that is tasked with assigning licenses to casinos and those determined to be “key employees” at those casinos. Key employees are defined as individuals who are “involved in the operation of a casino in a supervisory capacity or empowered to make discretionary decisions on casino operations.”
Additionally, the NJCCC hears appeals on the decisions of, or penalties imposed by the NJDGE. This function essentially helps ease some of the workload of the NJDGE since that agency also oversees sports betting in the state while the NJCCC strictly focuses on casino operations.
The commission was created by the New Jersey legislature in 1977. It previously operated as a five-person panel, though it was reduced in size in 2012 with several of its previous operating functions shifted to the NJDGE.
By state law, the NJCCC cannot have more than two members of the same political party on the panel. This ensures a balance of power as the positions are appointed by the governor and run in staggered five-year terms.
What forms of gambling does the New Jersey Casino Control Commission regulate?
The only form of gambling regulated by the New Jersey Casino Control Commission is casino gambling (including both in-person and online casino gaming in NJ). It is not affiliated with sports betting, horse race betting, or the state lottery in any capacity.
How does the New Jersey Casino Control Commission ensure responsible gambling practices?
The New Jersey Casino Control Commission helps to ensure responsible gambling practices by working to ensure operators who hold licenses and those who work in casinos are above reproach. This includes reviewing license applications from the casinos themselves as well as verifying that key employees are making responsible, fair decisions when operating on the casino’s behalf.
Beyond the responsibility of issuing licenses, the NJCCC can also affirm or overrule decisions made by the NJDGE. This helps to protect all parties involved in gambling (casino patrons, staff, and management alike) by allowing them a right to appeal, thus helping to make certain all casino operations are conducted in a legitimate manner.
How can one apply for a gambling license in New Jersey?
Most individuals will not need to apply for a gambling license in New Jersey even if they are working in a casino. The main individuals who would need to apply for a gambling license would be casino executives, managers/supervisors, pit/shift bosses, and marketing directors.
With that in mind, there are several steps to applying for a gambling license in New Jersey for those who would be required by law to obtain one. The first is to fill out the application form which can be found on the NJCCC website.
Once the form is completed, the application and a supplemental copy thereof must be submitted to the NJCCC. You will also need to submit two copies of the five most recent years of state and federal tax returns, along with the $750 application fee.
From there, the NJDGE will conduct an investigation/background check to affirm your credibility and qualifications. This will include running fingerprints, for which there is another fee involved (by state law, the total fees involved in the application process and background screening shall not exceed $4,000).
Casino employee licenses for those who are not required to apply for a Casino Key Employee License must do so through the NJDGE website.
What are the penalties for violating gaming regulations in New Jersey?
The penalties for violating gaming regulations in New Jersey are contingent upon the nature of the infraction committed. For example, individuals running unlicensed casino games could be subject to fines of as much as $200,000, while gambling or attempting to gamble while underage could result in fines between $500 and $1,000.
The best way to avoid any such penalties is to only gamble with legal, licensed casino operators. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is and should be avoided!
How does the New Jersey Casino Control Commission contribute to the state's economy?
The New Jersey Casino Control Commission contributes to the state’s economy by helping to facilitate the distribution of taxes and fees paid by the state’s casinos into the Casino Revenue Fund (CDF). The CDF then uses that money for redeveloping the Atlantic City Tourism District as well as marketing and promotional endeavors.
Additionally, New Jersey casino revenue helps to fund responsible gambling efforts, as well as programs for seniors, physically disabled individuals, public health and safety initiatives, and human services.
In FY 2022, the NJCCC collected $457.63 million for the Casino Revenue Fund.