New Jersey is a "lottery-free" state, which means that gambling on lottery games is not legal. In fact, it's technically illegal under New Jersey law to gamble on lottery games in the State of Nevada ( Reno or Las Vegas). Players must begin on equal footing and take no cuts of the earnings if they engage in noncommercial gambling. Playing a family poker game or taking part in corporate football pools is permitted provided certain criteria are met. However, social gaming is prohibited in bars and other locations with drinking licenses.