N.J. closer to approving hand-held gaming devices

Gambling could soon get more convenient at New Jersey casinos.

Legislation approved yesterday by an Assembly committee would allow casino patrons to use hand-held gaming devices to do their betting poolside, in the buffet line or at a lounge, the Associated Press reports.

Introduced by Sen. Jim Whelan, a former Atlantic City mayor, the bill would let gamblers establish casino accounts to use on the devices. The devices must be inoperable off casino property, and winning bets must be paid off at the casino.