Regulators working on rules for online wagering in N.J.

Internet gambling in New Jersey is not expected to begin for at least another three months. In the meantime, officials are working out regulations to implement the law that Gov. Chris Christie signed this week.

The director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is concerned Internet wagering could lead to more gambling addiction and that young people who can’t get into a casino will try to play on the Internet.

“The technology is something they’re very comfortable with,” said Donald Weinbaum. “Most young people are lot more tech savvy than others. You don’t know who’s on the other end. You can try to identify the person at sign up as best you can.”

There will be sturdy safeguards, says state Sen. Ray Lesniak, D-Union.

“It’s actually easier to prevent underage people from going online and gambling than it is showing up at casinos because the software that’s available that will require multiple identifications and questions that can be asked that would identify someone as an adult are almost foolproof,” he said.

Assemblyman John Burzichelli, D-Gloucester, expects regulators will allow online gamblers to set daily limits on their play so they don’t overdo it. He says it will be up to individuals to manage their accounts responsibly.