New Jersey gaming regulators are weighing whether to allow cryptocurrency in the state’s casino system. The Division of Gaming Enforcement has spent months reviewing how digital currencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum could work with existing player protection rules. Officials said they need to balance new technology with current safety standards.

The current rules do not allow crypto gambling within New Jersey’s licensed casinos. This creates a gap where players who want to use digital currencies go to offshore sites instead. Many of these international platforms operate without the consumer protections that New Jersey requires from its licensed operators.

Players often turn to offshore sites because of convenience features. Some operate as no account casino sites where users can connect their crypto wallet and start playing immediately. These sites skip the registration forms and verification steps that traditional casinos require. A player can link their Bitcoin wallet and be spinning slots within minutes.

State officials recognize the appeal but worry about several issues. Cryptocurrency prices change rapidly throughout each day. A $100 Bitcoin wager at the start of a poker game might be worth $85 or $120 when the hand ends. This volatility makes it hard for casinos to handle accounting and payouts properly.

New Jersey has a track record of gambling innovation. Atlantic City casinos opened in 1976 when most states banned all casino games. Online casinos launched in 2013, years before other states adopted internet gaming. The state also led the 2018 Supreme Court case that opened sports betting across America.

Gaming officials are now considering a “regulatory sandbox” approach for crypto gambling. Licensed operators could test digital currency features under close state supervision. The idea would let casinos accept Bitcoin deposits that convert immediately into U.S. dollars. Players would get crypto convenience without the wild price swings.

Some New Jersey sportsbooks already offer limited crypto options. They accept Bitcoin and Ethereum deposits but convert everything to dollars before placing any bets. This hybrid system addresses volatility concerns while giving players more payment choices.

Federal law adds complications to state decisions. The 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act creates unclear areas around cryptocurrency transactions. Without clear federal guidance, states must figure out their own approaches to digital currency gambling.

David Rebuck led New Jersey’s gaming enforcement division until his retirement in 2024. He previously said regulators should “sit on the sidelines” and watch crypto developments before making quick decisions. His careful approach still influences current policy discussions.

Consumer protection remains the top priority. New Jersey recently proposed stronger responsible gambling requirements that would force licensed operators to monitor player behavior more closely. Any crypto gambling system would need to include similar safeguards for problem gambling prevention.

The pressure to act keeps building as New Jersey’s online gambling revenue hit record highs in mid-2025. Atlantic City casinos reported year-over-year declines even as online gambling grew. More New Jersey residents try offshore crypto gambling sites each month, taking their money outside the regulated system. Officials said they need to balance innovation with protecting a thriving sector that generates millions in state revenue.

Anti-money laundering rules create another challenge. Cryptocurrency transactions require sophisticated tracking systems to meet federal reporting standards. Licensed operators would need expensive new technology to monitor digital currency flows and flag suspicious activity.

State officials do not expect quick action on crypto gambling rules. New Jersey learned from past gambling expansions that careful planning works better than rushed implementation. They would rather take extra time to get the regulations right than be first to market.

Industry analysts think New Jersey will eventually approve some form of crypto gambling, but officials want strong consumer protections in place first. Other states are watching the approach closely since whatever rules emerge here will likely influence crypto gambling policy elsewhere. Committee hearings might begin later this year if regulators move ahead with crypto gambling rules. The process would require public comment periods and testing before any new regulations go into effect.

PARSIPPANY — Diwali, often referred to as the “Festival of Lights,” is a celebration of joy, hope, and togetherness observed by millions around the world. Diwali holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is not only celebrated by Hindus, but by people of various religious and cultural backgrounds, uniting communities through vibrant traditions, spiritual reflection, and shared festivities.

This year, the Diwali celebration at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Parsippany, NJ will highlight the theme of unity, inviting communities to come together to honor shared values, cultural heritage, and spiritual reflection. BAPS welcomes the public to join in the festivities and experience the vibrant traditions of Diwali.

Who: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Parsippany
What/when: 1. Kids Diwali celebration on Saturday October 18 From 10:00 a.m. Onwards
Registration recommended baps.sl/par-kdc25
2. Diwali Celebration (Laxmi pujan) Monday, October 20 – 6:30 p.m. onwards
Registration recommended https://forms.office.com/r/XqSVky6eZ9
3. Grand Annakut on Saturday, October 25 – 9:00 a.m. onwards
Where: 3, Entin Road, Parsippany

Key highlights of the celebration include:
● Radiant Mandir Decorations: Visitors will be greeted by colorful lights, handcrafted décor, and intricate rangoli designs that reflect the rich artistic traditions of India.
● Annakut Offering: A central feature of Diwali, the Annakut will display hundreds of vegetarian dishes arranged as a symbol of gratitude and devotion.
● Engaging Youth Activities: Children and youth can enjoy interactive programs, games, fireworks, and cultural experiences designed to teach the values and significance of Diwali in a fun, memorable way.

This celebration provides an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together, celebrate unity, and share in the joy and warmth of Diwali.

For more information, please contact Jatin Jasani at (973) 580-5359 or email [email protected].

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (B.A.P.S) is a volunteer-driven spiritual organization committed to fostering individual growth through Hindu values of faith, service, and harmony. It enriches society with the devoted efforts of tens of thousands of volunteers from diverse professional and social backgrounds, contributing millions of volunteer hours annually. Under the spiritual leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS nurtures Hindu traditions through its over 120 mandirs in North America and over 5,000 centers worldwide. Through these communities, it champions holistic personal growth, promotes social progress, and encourages diversity by embracing all. For more details, visit http://www.baps.org.

PARSIPPANY — Parsippany-Troy Hills Township Council Meeting – Tuesday, October 7, 2025, agenda meeting at 7:00 p.m. at the municipal building.

Click here to download the agenda.

Click here for a copy of the 2025 calendar.

Adequate notice of this meeting has been provided in accordance with the requirements of the Open Public Meetings Law by filing the notice in the Office of the Township Clerk and by posting the meeting notice on the bulletin board at the Municipal Building on December 2, 2024, where it has remained posted since that date. A legal notice appeared in the Daily Record and the Newark Star-Ledger on December 6, 2024. 

Mayor James Barberio
Council President Paul Carifi, Jr.
Council Vice President Frank Neglia
Councilman Justin Musella
Councilman Matt McGrath
Councilwoman Judy Hernandez

MORRIS COUNTY — The Morris County Courthouse Complex and the Morris County Administration and Records Building in Morristown will be partially closed on Thursday, October 9, 2025 for a planned security exercise.

The Morris County Administration and Records Building will be closed to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The building will reopen at 1:30 p.m. for county business only.

The Morris County Courthouse will be closed to the public from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Court staff will remain available by phone from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (862) 397-5700. All court matters scheduled after 1:30 p.m. will be heard virtually. Emergent matters will be heard before 11:00 a.m. or virtually after 1:30 p.m.

Anyone seeking a temporary domestic violence restraining order between 10:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on October 9 should apply through the Morristown Police Department or their local police department.

MORRIS COUNTY — Senator Joe Pennacchio (R-26) issued the following statement in response to a foolish suggestion by a New Jersey Democrat to use eminent domain to seize President Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster and convert it into affordable housing:
“Democrats continue to show their true colors when it comes to their high-density housing scheme. They have weaponized the development of low-income housing, using it as a political threat instead of helping solve a basic human need. This latest stunt—targeting open space simply because they don’t like the President—is absurd, vindictive, and completely unserious.

“If Democrats truly cared about making homeownership more affordable in New Jersey, they wouldn’t need to play political games. They’ve controlled the Statehouse for over two decades. Instead of weaponizing affordable housing mandates, they should stop nickel-and-diming our residents to death with higher taxes, fees, tolls, and insurance premiums. 
“The real crisis is the cost of living in New Jersey—and it’s a direct result of years of failed Democrat leadership. Going after political opponents’ property and business is a new low, even for them.”

Senator Pennacchio has long criticized Democrats’ overreaching housing mandates, calling for more local control and practical reforms that focus on affordability through tax relief, economic development, and responsible planning.

PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Lions Club, in partnership with the American Red Cross, is inviting community members to take part in a life-saving blood donation drive on Saturday, December 13, at the Parsippany Main Library, 449 Halsey Road. The drive will run from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Blood donations are needed now more than ever. According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States requires blood every two seconds. For some patients, a single donation can make the difference between life and death.

• A burn victim may need as many as 20 units of platelets.
• A car crash victim could require up to 100 units of blood.

“This event is a chance for residents to give back in one of the most meaningful ways possible — by saving lives,” said a Parsippany Lions Club representative.

Appointments are required to participate in the drive. Interested donors may register online at bit.ly/DonateBlood2025 or by scanning the QR code featured on the event flyer.

The Parsippany Lions Club is proud to partner with the Parsippany Library, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, Kumon, Innovation Intelligence Impact, and Meena Upadhyay of New York Life in support of this important community event.

For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.parsippanylionsclub.org.

Give someone a chance to live — a good deed indeed!

MORRIS COUNTY – With just three weeks left before the deadline, New Jersey residents are reminded to register or update their voter registration ahead of the 2025 General Election on Tuesday, November 4.

The deadline to register is Tuesday, October 14. On that day, county offices will also offer extended evening hours to make registration more accessible for residents.

Key dates to remember include:

• November 3, by 3:00 p.m. – Last day to apply in person for a mail-in ballot
• November 4 – General Election Day

Residents can register to vote, update their information, or confirm their registration status online through the New Jersey Division of Elections website.

PARSIPPANY — A lifetime of service and leadership has led Frank Cahill to the top post in the New Jersey District of Kiwanis International. On October 1, Cahill officially assumed the role of Governor for the 2025–2026 service year, bringing with him more than three decades of dedication to children, community, and the Kiwanis family.

Cahill, a Parsippany resident and publisher of Parsippany Focus, first joined the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany in 1991. Over the years, he has served in nearly every leadership role imaginable—Distinguished President, Lieutenant Governor, District Chair, and most recently Governor-Elect. His tireless efforts have helped build and strengthen clubs throughout New Jersey, including chartering new ones in Dover, Roxbury, Rockaway, Hanover, and Tri-Town. He was recently involved with new club builds in Cherry Hill and Camden.

As Governor, Cahill will lead more than 80 Kiwanis clubs across the state, focusing on his guiding theme: “Double Down with Frank.” Emphasizing the core pillars of Build, Nurture, and Retain, Cahill’s plan seeks to expand membership, foster stronger relationships across the Kiwanis family, and ensure every community has a chance to benefit from the organization’s mission: improving the world, one child and one community at a time.

“I am honored to serve as Governor of the New Jersey District,” Cahill said. “Kiwanis has always been about rolling up our sleeves and working together for the good of our children and communities. This year, I want to double down on what makes Kiwanis strong—our people, our service, and our partnerships.”

While Cahill has supported countless causes during his 34 years of service, he often points to one project as especially meaningful: cooking and serving meals at Homeless Solutions. “There’s something very humbling about putting on an apron, preparing food, and sharing a meal with those in need,” he said. “It’s a reminder of why Kiwanis exists—to serve directly, with kindness and compassion.”

Throughout the year, Cahill will oversee major district events, including the Midwinter Conference and the District Convention in Atlantic City, while also supporting local service projects, fundraisers, and youth leadership programs like Key Club and Circle K.

Known for his relentless energy and ability to bring people together, Cahill has already begun connecting with club leaders statewide to share his vision. “Frank has the experience, heart, and drive to move our District forward,” said Howard Gordon, past Governor. “He leads not just with strategy, but with compassion.”

As the new Kiwanis year begins, Cahill’s leadership signals a renewed commitment to growth, service, and impact—values he has lived for more than 30 years.