New Online Portal Eases the Path to Self-Exclusion

The U.S. gambling industry is a significant economic contributor, with the national commercial gross gaming revenue reaching $66.65 billion in 2023. In 2021, states collectively spent $94 million on problem gambling services, marking a 28% increase from 2016.

New Jersey is leading the charge in tackling gambling addiction by introducing a groundbreaking change to its self-exclusion program.

The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office, in collaboration with the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), has unveiled an online portal that allows individuals to ban themselves from physical casinos in the state with just a few clicks.

Attorney General: “Gambling Is Not for Everyone”

This initiative builds on existing resources, which already enable residents to self-exclude from internet gambling.

Previously, enrolling in the self-exclusion program was more burdensome, requiring an in-person visit or participation in a video conference. The new online system streamlines the process, granting individuals the privacy and ease they need to make such a pivotal decision.

Attorney General Matthew Platkin emphasized the state’s commitment to addressing the darker side of gambling.

“While gambling can be fun for some, it is not for everyone,” Platkin remarked. “Expanding our self-exclusion portal makes it easier for those struggling with addiction to manage their recovery.”

The state hopes to eliminate barriers and foster a healthier gaming environment by allowing individuals to access the portal remotely.

The measure also ensures that casinos are informed about self-excluded individuals, sending their photographs to gaming establishments to assist in enforcement.

MaryJo Flaherty: Privacy and Empowerment at the Forefront

MaryJo Flaherty, acting director of the DGE, praised the update as a significant step toward giving people greater control over their gaming habits.

“This new online option empowers individuals with a private and efficient way to make decisions about their gaming habits, ensuring they have the resources they need to prioritize their well-being,” Flaherty stated.

The new portal aligns with broader efforts to offer more inclusive and accessible tools for those grappling with gambling addiction.

How Does Self-Exclusion Work?

New Jersey’s self-exclusion program mandates that casinos prevent enrolled individuals from entering their premises. Additionally, casinos are prohibited from marketing to or enticing these individuals with promotions or gambling-related offers.

The program allows participants to choose one year, five years, or a lifetime exclusion period.

For those opting for shorter terms, there’s an option to request removal from the list after the ban concludes.

However, the lifetime exclusion is irrevocable—a testament to its seriousness and the commitment of individuals who opt for it.

Anonymity and Accessibility: A Game-Changer

One of the most significant advantages of the online portal is its level of privacy. The cumbersome process of physically traveling to a designated location to enroll often discouraged people from taking the necessary steps.

“Now, anyone in the state can make this life-changing decision without feeling the pressure of an in-person interaction,” said Jenna Marks, a mental health advocate specializing in gambling addiction. “This website removes a major obstacle for people in need of help.”

The Growing Scope of Self-Exclusion

New Jersey has long been a pioneer in regulating gambling. The state was among the first to legalize online gambling, and it has continuously worked to ensure responsible gaming practices.

The self-exclusion program has been a cornerstone of these efforts, evolving to address both physical and online gambling.

While the state did not immediately disclose the total number of individuals currently on the exclusion lists, experts believe the numbers will grow with the introduction of the online portal.

“Ease of access can significantly increase participation in self-exclusion programs,” noted Dr. Thomas Keller, a clinical psychologist specializing in addiction. “The stigma of addiction often prevents individuals from seeking help. Making the process as discreet as possible is a big step forward.”

Legality of Online Gambling and Consumer Protection

Online gambling is legal and heavily regulated in New Jersey. This makes it one of the most robust gaming jurisdictions in the U.S. With strict guidelines to ensure fair play and consumer protection, the state has set a high standard for other regions.

However, it also acknowledges the potential risks, which is why programs like self-exclusion are vital.

This website focuses on legal standards while providing a secure platform for individuals to manage their gambling habits. It exemplifies New Jersey and other states’ balanced approach to fostering a thriving gaming industry while prioritizing public health.

A Lifeline for Those in Need

For many, the self-exclusion program serves as a lifeline. Stories of individuals overcoming gambling addiction highlight the importance of having accessible tools. John Peterson, a New Jersey resident who enrolled in the self-exclusion program two years ago, shared his journey:

“I was spiraling out of control, losing money and relationships. Signing up for the self-exclusion list was the wake-up call I needed,” Peterson said. “The process back then was intimidating, but this new portal would have made it so much easier. I’m glad others won’t have to go through the same challenges.”

Additional Enrollment Options Remain Available

Despite the introduction of the online portal, traditional enrollment methods remain available for those who prefer in-person interactions. Individuals can still sign up via video conference, at DGE offices in Atlantic City or Trenton, or at racetracks in East Rutherford or Oceanport.

The state’s aim is to provide wide-ranging options to meet different needs.

A National Model for Responsible Gambling?

New Jersey’s initiative could serve as a model for other states looking to modernize their approach to responsible gambling. Advocates are urging other jurisdictions to follow suit and invest in similar online tools.

“We need a nationwide effort to address gambling addiction, and New Jersey is leading by example,” said Sarah Turner, director of a nonprofit focusing on addiction recovery. “This approach acknowledges the complexity of addiction while offering tangible solutions.”

Prevalence of Gambling Participation and Disorders

In light of New Jersey’s recent initiative to streamline the self-exclusion process for individuals with gambling problems, it’s pertinent to examine responsible gambling statistics across the United States. These figures shed light on the prevalence of gambling-related issues and the measures being implemented to address them.

Gambling Participation

Approximately 85% of U.S. adults have engaged in gambling at least once in their lives, with around 60% having participated in the past year.

Problem Gambling Rates

Research indicates that about 0.6% of the U.S. adult population can be classified as pathological gamblers, with an additional 2.3% identified as problem gamblers.

Youth and Gambling

A recent study revealed that 10% of young men in the U.S. exhibit behaviors indicative of gambling problems, compared to 3% of the general population.

Responsible Gambling Measures and Awareness

• State Investments: All but eight states allocate funds toward problem gambling resources. Massachusetts leads in this regard, having spent $9.2 million in 2021 on behavioral health initiatives related to problem gambling.
• Consumer Awareness: Surveys indicate that more than eight in ten (84%) past-year gamblers are aware of at least one responsible gaming resource, with awareness rising to 91% among sports bettors.

Financial Consequences of Problem Gambling

• Debt Accumulation: An estimated 23 million Americans are in debt due to gambling addiction.
• Impact on Investments: Legalized sports betting has been associated with a 14% reduction in net brokerage investments, with each dollar spent on betting correlating to a $2.13 decrease in net investment.

Suicide Rates Among Problem Gamblers

            •           Research from the National Association of Addiction Professionals indicates that individuals suffering from gambling addiction have a suicide rate of 20%, the highest among all addictions.

State-by-State Alignment with Responsible Gambling Standards

A report by the National Council on Problem Gambling found that Connecticut, New Jersey, and Virginia are most aligned with responsible gambling standards, meeting 49 of 82 criteria. In contrast, several states met fewer than 25 of these standards, highlighting the variability in consumer protections across the country.

These statistics underscore the importance of initiatives like New Jersey’s online self-exclusion portal, which aims to provide accessible resources for individuals seeking to manage their gambling behaviors.

As gambling continues to expand nationwide, both in physical venues and online platforms, the emphasis on responsible gambling measures becomes increasingly critical to mitigate the associated risks and support affected individuals.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gambling Regulation

As online gambling continues to grow, regulators face the challenge of balancing industry expansion with responsible gaming practices. New Jersey’s new portal is a reminder that innovation and regulation can coexist.

For individuals like Peterson, and countless others yet to come, the availability of such tools represents a beacon of hope. As Platkin aptly stated, “Gambling is not for everyone.” New Jersey’s efforts ensure that help is just a click away for those who struggle.