New Jersey Gov Confident in New Responsible Gambling Task Force

Article by : Erik Gibbs Jun 25, 2024

• 
• 

New Jersey is taking significant steps to ensure responsible gambling practices, highlighted by recent actions from Governor Phil Murphy. Governor Murphy signed Executive Order No. 360, establishing the Responsible Gaming Task Force in New Jersey.

This decision follows a 2023 study by Rutgers University that examined problem gaming and responsible gambling within the state.

The newly formed task force is charged with providing advice and recommendations to both the Governor’s Office and the Attorney General on necessary reforms to bolster responsible gaming and address issues related to problem gambling.

Governor Murphy underscored New Jersey’s prominence as a major gaming hub, pointing to destinations such as Atlantic City and the state’s horse racing venues. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining New Jersey’s leadership in responsible gaming practices amidst its thriving gaming industry.

The Responsible Gaming Task Force will be composed of seven key government representatives or their designees, ensuring a comprehensive approach to the issue.

These members include the Attorney General, who will serve as the Chair, and representatives from the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, the Division of State Lottery, the New Jersey Racing Commission, and the Department of Human Services.

The task force is empowered to consult with industry experts and representatives from regulated entities, as well as individuals knowledgeable in responsible and problem gambling.

This collaborative effort aims to address the multifaceted challenges associated with gambling and ensure effective solutions. The task force is scheduled to submit its initial report to Governor Murphy by March 31, 2025.

Matthew Platkin, New Jersey’s Attorney General, commended Governor Murphy’s initiative in forming the task force and highlighted New Jersey’s leadership in the national landscape of casino and sports wagering.

Platkin stressed the importance of responsible gaming, emphasizing that it is a critical issue demanding the attention of government, industry, and other stakeholders. He expressed a strong commitment to addressing gambling disorder prevention and treatment as part of the state’s broader efforts in regulating the gaming industry.

New Jersey has led legal gambling, with substantial growth in sports betting and online casinos. However, this expansion has also led to a rise in problem gambling. A Rutgers study found that approximately 6% of New Jersey residents are at high risk for problem gambling, a figure that surpasses the national average.

In response to these concerns, the state has created the role of responsible gaming coordinator. This position ensures compliance with industry regulations, particularly in advertising and marketing, to protect vulnerable populations.

Platkin reaffirmed New Jersey’s dedication to responsible gaming by highlighting the establishment of this senior-level position within the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement as a severe and proactive measure.