The deregulation of Atlantic City

NJ lays off 115 of its 144 casino inspectors; more layoffs due under casino deregulation bill

New Jersey has sent layoff notices to 115 of its 144 casino inspectors whose jobs are being eliminated under a new casino deregulation law.

Additional layoffs to other inspectors at the Casino Control Commission are likely in coming weeks

The law is part of an Atlantic City rescue package signed by Gov. Chris Christie on Tuesday. It aims to save the casinos millions of dollars that will be used to help market the nation's second-largest gambling resort.

Part of the savings is to be achieved by eliminating many of the functions of the casino commission and transferring them to the Division of Gaming Enforcement, which already has some of its own inspectors.

The layoffs take effect March 25.