As Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the summer tourism season, renewed debate surrounding casino expansion outside of Atlantic City has once again underscored the critical role Atlantic City plays in South Jersey’s economy, workforce and tourism industry. For decades, Atlantic City has served as an economic engine for the region, supporting thousands of jobs, generating significant tax revenue and driving economic activity for businesses throughout Southern New Jersey.

Earlier this month, a bipartisan coalition of South Jersey legislators issued a forceful letter opposing legislative proposals that would authorize casinos in North Jersey at the Meadowlands and Monmouth Park racetracks. The letter, addressed to Governor Mikie Sherrill and legislative leadership, pledged strong opposition to any effort that would weaken Atlantic City’s gaming and tourism market or divert investment away from the region.

The Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey (CCSNJ) applauds the South Jersey congressional delegation and bipartisan legislators who have united in support of protecting Atlantic City, the thousands of workers and small businesses tied to its continued success, and the broader regional economy that depends heavily on a strong hospitality and tourism sector. Their unified message demonstrates a continued commitment to preserving one of South Jersey’s most important economic assets at a time when the state’s gaming and entertainment industries face increasing regional competition.

The full list of signatories includes:

U.S. House Representatives Donald Norcross, Jeff Van Drew and Herb Conaway

LD-1: Sen. Michael Testa, Assemblyman Antwan McClellan, Assemblyman Erik Simonsen

LD-2: Senator Vince Polistina, Assemblyman Don Guardian, Assemblywoman Maureen Rowan

LD-3: Senator John Burzichelli, Assemblywoman Heather Simmons, Assemblyman Dave Bailey Jr.

LD-4: Senator Paul Moriarty, Assemblyman Dan Hutchison, Assemblyman Cody Miller

LD-5: Senator Nilsa Cruz-Perez, Assemblyman William Spearman, Assemblyman William Moen Jr.

LD-6: Senator James Beach, Assembly Majority Leader Louis Greenwald, Assemblywoman Melinda Kane

LD-7: Senator Troy Singleton, Assemblywoman Carol Murphy, Assemblyman Balvir Singh

LD-8: Senator Latham Tiver, Assemblywoman Andrea Katz, Assemblyman Anthony Angelozzi

LD-9: Senator Carmen Amato, Assemblyman Brian Rumpf, Assemblyman Gregory Myhre

LD-10: Senator James Holzapfel, Assemblyman Gregory McGuckin, Assemblyman Paul Kanitra

LD-30: Senator Robert Singer

As residents and visitors travel to the Shore this Memorial Day weekend, CCSNJ extends its sincere appreciation to the bipartisan coalition of legislators and members of Congress who have stood together to oppose casino expansion outside Atlantic City and advocate for the protection of South Jersey jobs, businesses and economic investment. Their leadership and continued commitment to preserving Atlantic City’s unique role as New Jersey’s gaming and tourism destination sends a strong and important message that

South Jersey’s economic future must remain a priority. CCSNJ remains committed to working alongside these leaders to support policies that strengthen regional economic growth, promote tourism and ensure Atlantic City remains a vital economic driver for generations to come.