New Jersey Voters Back Gambling Ad Restrictions

The Most Important Points at a Glance
New surveys show that a majority of voters in New Jersey support restrictions on gambling advertising. Over 75% of respondents favor measures to limit advertising times and locations. Support spans across all political affiliations and demographic groups. However, legal restrictions are difficult to implement due to constitutional hurdles.
Majority of Voters Oppose Excessive Gambling Advertising
Gambling advertising is everywhere – from billboards on highways to commercials on TV and social media. A recent survey by Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) reveals that many New Jersey residents have had enough. Of the nearly 1,500 voters surveyed, more than three-quarters support restrictions on gambling advertising. Only 17% oppose such measures.
Bipartisan Support for Advertising Restrictions
The survey found that the call for advertising restrictions is supported across party lines:
- 81% of Democrats
- 74% of Republicans
- 69% of independent voters
There is also broad support across gender and age groups. Support is particularly high among women (79%) and older voters (up to 79% in the 65+ age group).
New Jersey’s Gambling Market Continues to Grow
Despite criticism of gambling advertising, New Jersey remains one of the largest gambling markets in the U.S. In 2024, licensed sports betting operators generated nearly $1.1 billion in revenue. A total of over $12.7 billion was wagered on sports betting, with 96% of it placed online. Online gambling is also thriving, with iGaming providers generating nearly $2.4 billion in revenue.
Longstanding Criticism of Gambling Advertising
As early as 2022, Assemblyman Ralph Caputo criticized the overwhelming presence of gambling advertising. He described the advertising strategies as “intrusive” and “excessive.” However, legal measures to restrict advertising are difficult, as many television networks serving New Jersey are based in other states. Additionally, the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution largely protects commercial advertising from government interference.
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New Federal Legislative Initiative
At the national level, the “SAFE Bet Act” is currently being drafted. This bill, introduced by legislators from New York and Connecticut, aims to restrict gambling advertising during live sports broadcasts and between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Whether the bill will be passed remains to be seen.
Our Assessment
The survey clearly indicates strong opposition to intensive gambling advertising in New Jersey. While the gambling industry continues to grow, pressure on lawmakers to take action against excessive advertising is also increasing. Whether and to what extent restrictions will actually be implemented depends on legal and political developments.