Authorities in New Jersey have unveiled plans to implement two new responsible gambling tools to help protect players in the Garden State.
Attorney General Matthew Platkin and DGE Director David Rebuck have announced that a dedicated problem gambling hotline and a virtual self-exclusion register will be introduced to support those suffering from gambling harms.
“New Jersey has always been a national leader in gaming, as the first to allow casino gambling outside Nevada and the first to launch Internet gaming. And we are now focusing on making our pioneering state the standard in responsible gaming practices,” said Attorney General Platkin.
“The efforts announced today underscore our commitment to helping problem gamblers by expanding the entry points for self-exclusion and other methods to receive assistance.”
The DGE has opened a new toll-free number, 1-833788-4DGE, which allows players to contact specially-trained staff who can provide responsible gambling material and support.
The hotline also teaches players about the self-exclusion process and how it can help to curb any gambling harms the player may be suffering.
Players in New Jersey can choose to exclude from either online gambling, retail gambling, or both, depending on their preferences. This can be done via a video conferencing service to help reduce the friction of signing up to the register.
Those who want to self-exclude from casinos must attend a meeting, however, those who want to exclude from online gambling can do so online once an identification verification check has been carried out.
“We hope the new tools being unveiled today will help to further reduce the risk of problem gambling,” said David Rebuck, Division of Gaming Enforcement Director. “By promoting responsible gaming practices, we can help keep gaming an enjoyable and entertaining activity for all.”
As well as the introduction of the two new tools, the DGE is also launching an updated RG section on its website that will offer services such as self-exclusion information, best practices for operators on RG, and regulations.
The website will also feature an annual report, conducted by Rutgers University, which will analyze the impact of the online gaming industry and explore player bets and behaviors throughout the year.
These changes have been made following the appointment of Jamie McKelvey, the DGE’s first Responsible Gaming Coordinator, who joined in May.
McKelvey is charged with developing, overseeing, and implementing the DGE’s RG strategy and any further initiatives.
She will collaborate with New Jersey licensees to ensure that operators and suppliers are fulfilling their required commitments to RG duties.
