New Jersey Panel Approves Bill To Keep Casinos Open During State Shutdowns

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A measure that would allow Atlantic City casinos to remain open throughout a state government shutdown has cleared another hurdle in the New Jersey legislature.

The measure — which also covers New Jersey's racetracks — was approved Monday by a state Senate committee. An identical bill has been introduced in the assembly, but a committee hearing there has not been scheduled.

State law now allows casinos to keep their doors open for seven days after government shuts down. That limit was instituted in a measure passed in 2008 after a shutdown.

The latest legislation would allow the gaming halls to stay open as long as a shutdown is ongoing.

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