Borgata prepares for Internet gambling with television betting

The casino has added a feature to the televisions in their hotel rooms to allow slot pay on the televisions. Gamblers would be able to play slots and video poker, just as they would if they were to go down to the casino floor. It is an innovation the Borgata hopes will help them transition into the world of online gambling.

The Atlantic City casino industry is in desperate need of some way to improve their customer relations. At a time when gamblers are choosing to head towards Pennsylvania for their casino experience, this casino is hoping to lure gamblers back with a little bit of comfort gambling.

"This puts us in a position to leverage the technology into true mobile gaming and Internet betting later on," said Tom Balance, CEO of the Borgata. "We're moving forward with the future of gaming, and this is that first step."

The move is timed well for the Borgata. Governor Chris Christie recently vetoed an online gambling bill, but laid the foundation for passing Internet gaming regulations after lawmakers adjust the legislation to address Christie's concerns on taxation and regulation.

Senator Raymond Lesniak, who has been pushing online gambling laws in New Jersey for several years, said last week that he believes online casinos could be operational at Atlantic City casinos by September. That timeframe could make New Jersey the first state in the US to offer online gambling.