Assembly approves beach bar bill - NBC40.net

The General Assembly approved a bipartisan plan sponsored by Assembly Republican Chris A. Brown that would allow newer casinos to open beach bars in the Atlantic City Tourism District.

"Beach bars have become a important draw for casinos to attract people who want to unwind and enjoy the surf and sand," Brown, R-Atlantic, said. "Newer casinos, such as Revel, should have the same opportunity as existing ones to open these amenities and increase tourism and entertainment revenue in an area specifically designed to boost tourism."

The Assembly approved A-2946/S-1754  which would remove an oversight in the law that prevents casinos from opening beach bars that were not operating as of Aug. 31, 2011. Brown, a member of the Assembly Tourism and Arts Committee, sponsored the legislation.

"Our laws should encourage, not deter, economic growth in the Tourism District," Brown said. "Tourism is too important to the state and local economy to allow a mistaken law inhibit the success of newer casinos needed to fuel Atlantic City's rebirth."

The legislation has cleared both houses in the Legislature and heads to Governor Christie's desk for consideration.