(Thursday, May 25) The state of New Jerseys is changing its gambling regulations with the goal of improving responsible gambling initiatives and reducing problem gambling numbers.
The new regulations include 15 new advertising guidelines that make it easier for those who struggle with gambling problems to exclude themselves from casino marketing. They put more emphasis on online sportsbooks, casinos and in-person establishments using data to ensure that they are marketing their products responsibly.
A new Responsible Gaming Coordinator has also been appointed.
Changes To Advertising
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin revealed the new initiatives in April. He told reporters, “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.”
Casinos that offer online gambling, sports betting or in-person gambling will have to prominently display New Jersey’s 1-800-GAMBLER problem gambling hotline in every ad.
“Misleading terms” such as “guaranteed wins” or “risk-free” bets are now prohibited where casinos cannot ensure that customers will be fully compensated for any losses incurred when betting or playing casino games. “Unrealistic promotional wagering requirements” should not be offered and terms and conditions must be clearly set out for all promotions.
Operators must ensure that customers can easily unsubscribe from direct marketing material and that advertisements cannot be presented in any medium that would particularly appeal to underage players.Before they are used, all promotions and advertisements must be filed with NJDGE (New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement).
Easier Self-Exclusion and a New Gaming Coordinator
Another aspect of the new regulation is making it much easier to sign up for self-exclusion. There is now a 24/7 hotline that will explain details and assist players wanting to add themselves to New Jersey’s voluntary gambling self-exclusion list. Once listed, these players cannot play at online or physical gambling venues in the state.
As well as the above changes, NJDGE will appoint a Responsible Gaming Coordinator who “will handle all issues impacting responsible gambling and ensure progress on existing initiatives.” They will have a full-time team and will monitor and report back on how the new regulations are working and what needs to be done to improve them.
BetMGM Supports Responsible Gambling
These are excellent steps in the right direction to protect those who have gambling problems and to improve responsible gambling initiatives in New Jersey. BetMGM is passionate about responsible gambling. It will be interesting to note how the new regulations fare in the state.
