Federal judge to hear arguments on allowing sports betting in New Jersey

A federal judge is set to listen to arguments allowing sports betting in New Jersey, where Gov. Chris Christie wants to test a federal law that bans it at most places.

The hearing is scheduled before Judge Michael Shipp on Thursday in a case that pits New Jersey officials against the federal government and major sports leagues.

Last month, Shipp issued a temporary restraining order to block the opening of sports betting systems at Monmouth Park racetrack just two days before it had planned to accept its first wagers.

Gov. Chris Christie and New Jersey lawmakers hope that sports betting could help revive the state's struggling casinos and horse tracks.

New Jersey does not intend to regulate sports gambling if it's allowed.