New Jersey Begins Battle To Lift Sports Betting Ban

Atlantic City was once a major portion of New Jersey's revenue. Due to the financial crisis of the United States, Atlantic City, a once flourishing gambling empire, has been reduced to a shadow of its former self. There is hope, some argue, and that hope lies in sports betting.

Sports betting has been, for the most part, banned on a federal level. Jon Corzine, the governor of New Jersey, has placed himself on the front line of the epic battle, pushing toward legalizing sports gambling. He is attempting to follow in suit behind Delaware, a state that has legalized sports gambling for their residents.

The federal law banning sports betting affects all but four states. Oregon, Nevada, Delaware, and Montana are exempt from this crass abuse of civil rights mitigation. Many lobbyists and interest groups involved in gambling have been pushing the government to overturn the law. Attempts have been less than successful on a federal level, but a smaller, grass roots initiative in the states themselves might have more luck.

Upon interview, observer Rick Hawrenko said, "Personally I don't enjoy casino gambling. If Jersey were to allow sports betting I would probably be a bit more keen on gambling." Frankly, we were just surprised that he said keen. Who says that anymore?