New Jersey beefs up responsible gambling regime with new initiatives
Garden State regulator to set new advertising standards as well as creating new RG Coordinator role
Officials in New Jersey have unveiled a trio of new initiatives aimed at bolstering the Garden State’s approach to responsible gambling (RG).
Jointly announced by New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J Platkin and the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) director David Rebuck, the initiatives include a new position within the DGE dedicated to responsible gambling and simplifying access to self-exclusion in the state.
Perhaps the most impactful to the sector are a set of 15 new online and sports betting advertising standards that must be adhered to by licensees, standards which the DGE has aimed at making RG a “priority” for operators.
The standards include an end to use of terms such as “guaranteed wins” or “risk free” in all gambling advertising where individuals will not receive their losses back and making wagering requirements clear in all terms and conditions.
Operators must also limit advertising in locations accessible by underage individuals as well as displaying New Jersey’s 1-800-GAMBLER hotline in their ads.
In addition, all “unrealistic” promotional wagering advertising must cease, with operators required to provide members of the public with the ability to opt out of direct gambling advertising.
The DGE’s new responsible gambling coordinator will be tasked with handling all issues impacting RG in the state, ensuring progress on existing initiatives made by the regulator.
The position, which is expected to be filled by what the DGE deems as “an experienced attorney”, will report back to DGE director Rebuck any gaps and problems in existing frameworks, while also engaging with industry stakeholders to develop new initiatives.
In respect of self-exclusion, the DGE has committed to making the process straightforward for Garden State residents.
New Jersey’s existing voluntary self-exclusion program allows players to voluntarily prohibit themselves from accessing casino gaming floors through in-person appointments with specially trained DGE staff, and/or from online gaming through DGE’s online application.
Beefing up this option, the DGE has said it will create a video-conference option to make it easier for players to self-exclude without leaving home.
The DGE has also said it will establish a 24/7 hotline dedicated to assisting people with questions about the self-exclusion program and the signup process.
Attorney General Platkin and DGE director Rebuck both cited the duty of care of New Jersey authorities to protect players.
“As New Jersey’s gaming and sports wagering industries continue to grow and mature, so do our obligations to assist patrons who are at risk for problem gambling,” AG Platkin said.
“By establishing a dedicated, senior level position within the Division of Gaming Enforcement to focus on responsible gaming, we are sending a clear message that we take this work seriously – and so should the industry.
“Our other initiatives announced today will help protect consumers and make it easier for individuals to access the help they need when their gaming behavior becomes problematic.”
DGE’s Rebuck added: “We have seen tremendous growth in sports wagering and online gaming in New Jersey.
“In the face of that boom, we have a duty to protect the public from advertising that could be misleading or harmful. “And for those in the grip of gambling addiction, we need to offer as many exit ramps from their condition as possible.”