Story perspectives

Court Declares 70,000 Skill-Game Machines Illegal, Pauses Enforcement

6/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The court ruled the state’s 70,000 skill-game machines illegal, pausing enforcement for 120 days.
Attorney General Dave Sunday said ruling protects consumers, taxpayers and the rule of law.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s budget proposes a 52% tax on skill-game revenue, estimating over $2 billion annually.
Senate leaders praised the ruling’s clarity for safety and budget needs.
House leader Jesse Topper said the ruling should prompt reforms to protect people from gambling addiction.

History

Historical Context

New Jersey’s 2018 Supreme Court ruling in Murphy v. NCAA declared the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act unconstitutional under the Tenth Amendment, freeing states to regulate sports betting. Building on that precedent, Attorney General Dave Sunday ordered the removal of 70,000 gambling machines, while Governor Josh Shapiro proposes a 52 percent tax to capture the anticipated revenue.

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Story summary

The court ruled the state’s 70,000 skill-game machines illegal, pausing enforcement for 120 days.
Attorney General Dave Sunday said ruling protects consumers, taxpayers and the rule of law.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s budget proposes a 52% tax on skill-game revenue, estimating over $2 billion annually.
Senate leaders praised the ruling’s clarity for safety and budget needs.
House leader Jesse Topper said the ruling should prompt reforms to protect people from gambling addiction.

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