The report, requested by the Division of Gaming Enforcement, shows that measures against problem gambling have given encouraging results.
Problems with high-risk gambling in New Jersey have fallen despite a rise in the popularity of online betting. According to a report compiled by Rutgers University, the rate of high-risk problem gambling in the state has fallen from 6.3% to 5.6%, even though a decision by the US Supreme Court paved the way for additional gambling in 2018. Since the report was compiled, more work has been done to reduce
risks associated with the growth of online casinos, including responsible gambling measures introduced in early 2024, such as the proposed introduction of a gambling treatment diversion court.
Looking more closely at the
Rutgers University report shows that responsible gambling measures in place in New Jersey are working. Although, the report also recognizes there is more work to be done to ensure that people are protected when they play.
The report was paid for by the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) and compiled between December 2020 and April 2021. It covers a variety of activities at New Jersey online gambling sites, including casino games and sports betting. In total, it covers 15 types of gambling, such as fantasy sports, lottery, scratch cards, and bingo.
It's hardly surprising that as New Jersey's online casinos and sports betting have grown in popularity, the number of problem gamblers has also increased. Recognizing that measures are being adopted and yielding favorable outcomes is an excellent step toward preserving the upward trajectory of the New Jersey gambling industry.
The fact that New Jersey is evaluating its gambling landscape in this way shows that those responsible are dedicated to making gambling the safe and fun activity it should be. Details of the report will be used to determine if any further regulatory and supportive measures are needed to protect people who are most at risk from gambling problems.
Any new measures will join those that are already in place and, according to figures in the report, are working. For example, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey collaborates
with the DGE to allow New Jersey residents to self-exclude from Internet and land-based gambling. This is a valuable facility for anyone who feels they have an issue.
Further measures to prevent problem gambling were introduced in 2023, and announced by Attorney-General Matthew J Platkin together with David Rebuck, who is the Director of the DGE. The measures they announced include the requirement to clearly display the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline number in gambling advertisements and a ban on using words such as “guaranteed wins” or “risk-free.” There is also a requirement to allow people to easily opt out of receiving gambling-related advertising.
These are only some of the new measures introduced in 2023. The DGE also announced the introduction of a video-conference facility to allow players to self-exclude quickly and easily without leaving home. In addition, he announced the introduction of a new 24/7 hotline to provide self-exclusion advice and support.
At the same time, the Attorney-General announced the creation of a new role at a senior level in the DGE. He said that the role would be filled by an experienced attorney with responsibility for responsible gambling and reporting directly to the DGE Director.
The introduction of these new measures, to bolster those already in place, helps New Jersey to limit the rate of high-risk problem gambling. As efforts like this continue, those responsible for the regulation and monitoring of gambling activity in the state will hope that the positive impact of their actions continues to be clearly seen.
