N.J. voters expected to vote down casino expansion, approve gas-tax revenue use

Two proposed constitutional amendments will be on the ballot in New Jersey. A Fairleigh Dickinson poll indicates one will be defeated while the other could win voter approval.

Only 24 percent of registered voters surveyed support the amendment that would expand casino gambling to areas in North Jersey, while 70 percent oppose it.

Poll director Krista Jenkins said most residents are against it for two reasons.

“The first is a belief that the state already has enough casinos — 36 percent gave us that response,” she said. “And 26 percent said they’re concerned about the harm that they’ve already caused to Atlantic City.”

A small percentage of voters fear more casinos would add to congestion in the state, increase crime, or have concerns about where new casinos would be located, Jenkins said.

Residents are divided about the second ballot question that would require all revenue from the soon-to-be-raised gas tax to be dedicated to the Transportation Trust Fund.

Jenkins said 46 percent favor it, and 39 percent are opposed.

“There’s been so much talk about gas tax increases, it very well could be this is one of those issues that’s proving a little too complex,” she said. “So what we’re seeing here is people who may not be entirely aware of what the amendment would do.”