N.J. Admin. Code § 13:69-7.1

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 21, November 4, 2024

Section 13:69-7.1 - Statement of governing principles

(a) Pursuant to 5:12-138, casino licensees and other entities and persons closely aligned therewith are prohibited from making contributions of money or things of value to candidates for public office and political organizations in New Jersey. This prohibition is designed to protect the public interest in both the fact and the appearance of the independence of the political process, and the insulation of the government institutions that are responsible for the supervision of the casino industry, from the uniquely powerful economic force that is presented by that industry. The protection of these interests is critical to the maintenance of public confidence and trust in the regulation of casino gaming in New Jersey.

(b) The statutory prohibition was narrowly drawn in order to preserve the fundamental rights of all persons to express themselves as they see fit with regard to questions of political and public interest, including specifically the advocacy of the election or defeat of candidates for public office. No prohibition on the right of any person to join any political organization or movement, or to advocate the election or defeat of any candidate, was intended or effected by the statutory provision or the rules contained in this subchapter.

(c) Between the right of free expression and the necessary prohibition of certain contributions lies a range of conduct that should be identified as acceptable, or prohibited, in accordance with the public interest, the policies of the Act, and the fundamental rights of all citizens. In addition to the standards established in this subchapter, the declaratory ruling procedure set forth at 13:69-3.7 is available to assist all affected persons in understanding and complying with these provisions.

N.J. Admin. Code § 13:69-7.1