As the 1-800-GAMBLER problem gambling helpline changes hands as a result of a court order on Monday, state gaming regulators and problem gambling support groups hope to minimize the disruption to services.
A New Jersey judge ruled that the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) must cease using the number or mark as of Sept. 29, leaving it in the exclusive control Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), who has owned the number since the 1980s.
A different beast in 2025?
While CCGNJ Executive Director Luis Del Orbe told SBC Americas that the New Jersey council is sure it can pick up where it left off and run the helpline across the U.S., the NCPG maintained in court and in public that it greatly expanded 1-800-GAMBLER over the last three years.
These days, the 1-800-GAMBLER network handles thousands of calls, texts and online messages every month and routes them to 28 contact centers around the country.
Business as usual, say some
While some states like Massachusetts and Connecticut mandate different hotlines be advertised in licensee materials, many state regulators rely on the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline’s inclusion in marketing materials to help state residents reach the help they need.
Other states, such as Washington, do not mandate the promotion of a separate number, but have always prioritized promoting local resources. The Washington State Gambling Commission not only offers a 24/7 helpline but points to the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling, a non-profit organization which also has its own number.
The Colorado Division of Gaming sent out a notice on Sept. 25 in which it directed both the public and gaming licensees to continue to use 1-800-GAMBLER until otherwise directed by the state.
“The Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado (PGCC), which provides administrative oversight, management, and training for helpline staff, and referral resource development for the helpline, is working directly with CCGNJ to ensure there is no disruption in services,” added the Division. It also encouraged Coloradans to review the Division’s own Bet Smart Colorado website.
SBC Americas reached out to many more states for this story.
The Illinois Gaming Board said its understanding is that the 1-800-GAMBLER number will continue to be operational and accepting callers from Illinois without disruption, and that it is in contact with the Illinois Department of Human Services.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board is in contact with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA (CCGP), which administers Pennsylvania’s state helpline. “In turn, they are working closely with the CCGNJ to make a seamless transition as the national access ends, so we do not anticipate any interruption in service in Pennsylvania,” added a spokesperson.
CCGP Executive Director Josh Ercole told SBC Americas that his organization was assured by both NCPG and CCGNJ that call, chat and text services will be intact and go uninterrupted as things transition.
“Of course, until the changeover takes over, we won’t be 100% sure,” Ercole added. “But, based on the updates we’ve received, we’re hopeful that all will be okay.”
Other states point inward
In Connecticut, the Department of Consumer Protection stressed that, while it does not anticipate significant disruption, the regulator has never relied solely on 1-800-GAMBLER to help those in need.
“In our state, all marketing, retail signage and mobile applications must direct patrons to the Connecticut problem gambling helpline,'” the DCP told SBC Americas. “We’ve never allowed our licensees to rely solely on placement of the generic 1-800-GAMBLER phone number in their marketing materials, platforms, or retail facilities in CT.”
A similar message came from the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.
“We don’t anticipate a disruption of services for people who call 1-800-GAMBLER from Maryland. But there are additional ways to find help in Maryland, including no-cost counseling services, by contacting the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling,” the MLGCA said.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission reaffirmed that the 24/7 Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline is the state’s primary public-facing number and connects Ohio residents directly to local resources and treatment.
“We have a transition plan in place to ensure a smooth return to Ohio’s dedicated line,” the OCCC added. “Electronic materials, websites and operator advertisements will be updated quickly. All electronic and print materials are being updated.”
