NJ Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order No. 360 and Establishes Responsible Gaming Task Force

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 360 on June 14, creating a new Responsible Gaming Task Force to advise both the Governor’s Office and the Attorney General.

Its mission focuses on developing recommendations and reforms that support responsible gaming and address problem gambling in the Garden State.

A 2023 Rutgers report highlighted a concerning trend — about 6% of New Jersey residents were at high risk for problem gambling, compared to the 1–2% national average.
The report also showed that Black/African American and Hispanic residents faced the highest rates of problem gambling.

Ensuring Tools to Address Problem Gambling

Governor Murphy emphasized New Jersey’s long-standing gaming reputation — from Atlantic City to Jersey Shore amusement venues and horse racing tracks.
He stated that the Task Force would help the state maintain its leadership in gaming while ensuring residents have the tools to manage gambling responsibly.

Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin echoed this sentiment, commending the Governor for reinforcing responsible gaming initiatives statewide.
Platkin, who will serve as Chair of the Task Force, noted that responsible gaming is “a critical issue” demanding collective attention from the gaming industry.

The Task Force aims to:

• Strengthen statewide initiatives promoting responsible gambling.

• Develop better prevention and treatment strategies for gambling addiction.

• Ensure greater accountability and public awareness of gambling risks.

Composition and Objectives of the Task Force

According to Executive Order No. 360, the Task Force will include seven government representatives, chaired by Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.

The members include:

• James T. Plousis, Chair of the NJ Casino Control Commission

• David Rebuck, Director of the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement

• Cari Fais, Director of the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs

• James A. Carey, Jr., Director of the Division of State Lottery

• Sarah Adelman, Commissioner of the Department of Human Services

• Judith A. Nason, Executive Director of the NJ Racing Commission

The Task Force will:

• Review the impact of problem gambling on vulnerable and underage groups.

• Develop strategies to improve responsible gaming education and outreach.

• Recommend policy reforms to reduce gambling-related harm.

Additionally, the Task Force is authorized to consult with industry experts, regulators, and public and private stakeholders to ensure a well-rounded, data-driven approach to tackling problem gambling in New Jersey.

Through this initiative, New Jersey aims to reinforce its leadership in gaming while prioritizing the health and well-being of its residents.