The New Jersey Assembly has approved a bill allowing gamblers to use hand-held devices to make bets while on the grounds of Atlantic City casinos.

The bill, approved Monday by a 77-0 vote, authorizes use of the devices in areas like a casino's outdoor pool or recreation areas, or in lounges or hotel rooms. The state Division of Gaming Enforcement would have to verify that the devices would not work beyond the physical boundaries of the casino property.

Gamblers would have to establish a mobile betting account with the casino and all bets would have to be paid on casino grounds.

The state Senate initially approved the bill on May 31, but must now vote on the measure passed in the Assembly. That is scheduled to occur Thursday.

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