At this year’s GiGse Total Gaming conference held from April 20th to 22nd 2015 the state of New Jersey will be in attendance. The focus will concentrate on the industry’s future as they strive to become the center of the iGaming industry in the United States.
Online gambling launched in New Jersey over 18 months ago in November 2013. Originating in 6 casinos the number of has grown to 10 offering iGaming.
Eric Weiss of the Division of Gaming Enforcement (NJDGE) is the chief of technical services and part of the team responsible for introducing iGaming in New Jersey.
The goal and focus is a campaign that will be “New Jersey First” which will introduce new gambling products before any other states. It also wants to be recognized for iGaming regulations for the entire US.
“Our approach is simple,” said Weiss, who has been with the NJDGE since 1991. “We challenged the industry to innovate and to bring their products to New Jersey.
“Whether it is a social gaming approach, tournament or games purely based upon skill, the Division is prepared to accept new products and to evaluate them for suitability. We have demonstrated that regulating the internet can be done effectively and with a high degree of integrity.
“Additionally, the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) has set up policy parameters for internet gaming. The New Jersey model of regulation is consistent with those policies making it easy for any state wishing to enter into the online market to comply with the NCLGS policy recommendations.”
In 2014 the first year of online gaming, the state generated $122.9 million (€104.4m). Weiss has stated it is important to stay on the cutting edge of innovation.
“The challenge is to reach the millennials, who are currently avoiding the casino floor in favour of bars and nightclubs,” Weiss added.
“These individuals have grown up with their mobile devices and seem to find slot machines unappealing.
“I believe that the race is on to determine how to reach those individuals and to compete for their entertainment dollar. We believe that the skill-based initiative provides an excellent opportunity for vendors to reach that demographic.”
Weiss along with George Rover the deputy director of NJDGE are interested in hearing from the industry and what works and what needs improvement at conference.
The GiGse Total Gaming takes place in San Francisco, Ca at the Hyatt Regency. Registration to the conference has already began at: Register at this link