Rutgers University: New Jersey problem gambling rate drops to 5.6%

Research has shown New Jersey’s rate of high-risk problem gambling has decreased from 6.3% to 5.6%.

The report, which was funded by the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) and led by a team from Rutgers University, was a follow-up study to an initial 2017 report.

In the 2017 report, academics established the rate of high-risk gambling in the state to be 6.3%, with low/moderate-risk gambling rate pegged at 15%.

According to the latest report, these rates have now decreased to 5.6% and 13%, respectively.

Other headline findings from the study note New Jersey’s rate of problem gambling is around three times higher than the national average.

Elsewhere, participation in sports betting has jumped from 15% to 19% while the proportion of online-only gamblers has soared from 5% to 15%.

The research was undertaken between December 2020 and April 2021, and relied on telephone and online surveys of self-reported patterns of play for 3,512 New Jersey residents.

Respondents were asked about their engagement across 15 verticals, including sports betting, poker, and daily fantasy sports.

The report showed around 61% of respondents participated in at least one or more of the 15 verticals in the prior year.

Addressing the numbers, DGE director David Rebuck said: “We are dedicated to helping players play responsibly.

“For some people, this means setting limits to keep the experience enjoyable and social. For others who are struggling with problem gambling, it may mean signing up for self-exclusion or seeking out additional resources.

“We encourage both players and operators to maintain a balanced perspective on gambling,” he added.