N.J. makes sure visitors have a chance at boardwalk games of chance

As many people get ready to head down to the Jersey Shore for the long holiday weekend, state officials are taking steps to make sure they’re not ripped off by boardwalk merchants.

New Jersey inspectors are checking boardwalk merchants and arcades all along the coast to make sure the operators are complying with the law, said Steve Lee, acting state consumer affairs director.

“To see whether state-issued licenses are displayed, to check whether the rules for each game are posted and that they clearly explain what’s required to win a specific prize, and that games have not been modified to the disadvantage of players,” Lee explained.

Investigators also will be testing toys and prizes at those boardwalk stands to ensure they don’t have excessive levels of lead.

Many Shore businesses still trying to recover from Sandy don’t want to turn off customers, and Lee said the majority of the merchants are adhering to the rules.

Joe Chessere, an investigator with New Jersey’s Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission, said that’s what he’s found as he stopped at various booths along the boards.

“If you’re going to cheat the consumer, they’re not going to come back,” Chessere said, “Because of the situation that they are in financially, because they’re trying to rebuild, it’s very important that they do the right thing.”