A Jackpocket online casino is one step closer to becoming a reality in New Jersey now that state gambling regulators have authorized the internet lottery service to expand its betting business in the Garden State.
The Division of Gaming Enforcement authorized two joint petitions from Jackpocket and its licensed gaming partners in NJ — Caesars Interactive Entertainment and Harrah’s Atlantic City — to conduct online gambling in New Jersey.
Exactly when we can expect to see a Jackpocket online casino, however, remains to be seen.
Approved, but no timetable for Jackpocket NJ online casino launch
Earlier this year, the parties were granted regulatory approval to pursue an access agreement. However, DGE comments at the time suggested that a Jackpocket NJ online casino was still quite a ways off.
The Oct. 2 petition approvals could signal that a product launch is closer, but no timetable has been provided yet.
Jackpocket, one of two authorized third-party NJ lottery ticket courier services, has worked toward an online casino for nearly two years.
Could Jackpocket be exploring sports betting as well?
Unlike online casinos or online sportsbooks in NJ, internet lottery services are not licensed by a state regulatory agency; they receive approval from the NJ Lottery. Securing regulatory approval to partner with a licensed gambling operator in New Jersey to offer online casino gaming or mobile sports betting is a significantly higher bar to clear.
Caesars Interactive, Harrah’s AC and Jackpocket reached a deal to launch an online casino in NJ in 2021. Earlier this year, Jackpocket and White Hat Gaming agreed to terms on in-app payment processing services.
Jackpocket, which currently offers its lottery courier services in 15 states and Washington DC, has laid the groundwork for a successful NJ online casino launch. Given the following list of partnerships Jackpocket has entered into within the last 18 months, online sports betting may also be in the works:
- University of Rutgers Athletics Department
- New Jersey Devils
- Dallas Mavericks
- Minnesota Twins
- Dallas Stars
- Texas Rangers
