SOURCE: Associated Press

(Trenton, New Jersey) — The New Jersey Assembly Thursday approved asking voters to legalize professional sports betting in Atlantic City casinos, a move opposed by the National Football League and one that would have to overcome federal law.

But as the bill passed, sponsors said they would move to rework it to also allow in-person sports betting at three horse racing tracks and on NCAA contests that don't involve teams from New Jersey colleges and universities.

"The purpose behind allowing in-person sports betting in Atlantic City is to draw more people into New Jersey and protect the casinos from increased out-of-state competition," said Assemblyman John Burzichelli.

"We should be no less vigilant in seeking to protect our horse racing industry."

The Assembly voted 58-17 to approve the bill. Burzichelli said it would be amended in the Senate, which hasn't considered it.

Proponents estimate as much as $800 million could be wagered annually on pro sports in Atlantic City casinos, which have been hurt by competition from slots parlors in neighboring states.

Various estimates of illegal sports gambling in the U.S. range from $80 billion to $380 billion per year, and in recent years, New Jersey has had several high-profile illegal gambling arrests involving alleged mobsters, casino employees, a state trooper and NHL hockey coach Rick Tocchet.

But federal law restricts legalized sports betting to four states -- Delaware, Montana, Nevada and Oregon. Only Nevada enables betting on professional and college games.

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