The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) has announced the launch of two new tools to assist consumers with gambling-related harm in the US state.
Players seeking to exclude themselves from gambling can now contact the DGE via a new, toll-free phone number. Consumers can choose to self-exclude from online gaming or both online and in-person.
The service will also allow users to set up an in-person appointment with DGE staff or take part in a video conference with DGE responsible gaming personnel. The DGE said the video conference option will help remove barriers for patrons to address problem gambling by completing the process without leaving their homes.
Meanwhile, the DGE will also launch an updated responsible gambling landing page on its website. This, the regulator said, will serve as a central location containing information for players and operators.
Services available will include self-exclusion information, DGE responsible gambling best practices for operators and DGE responsible gaming regulations. In addition, the site will feature annual reports from Rutgers University examining the impact of online gambling and sports wagering and analyze patterns of play across all players and bets.
Pioneering responsible gaming efforts
“New Jersey has always been a national leader in gaming, as the first to allow casino gambling outside Nevada and the first to launch internet gaming,” New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin said.
“We are now focusing on making our pioneering state the standard in responsible gaming practices. These efforts underscore our commitment to helping problem gamblers by expanding the entry points for self-exclusion and other methods to receive assistance.”
DGE director David Rebuck added: “We hope the new tools will help to further reduce the risk of problem gambling. By promoting responsible gaming practices, we can help keep gaming an enjoyable and entertaining activity for all.”
The launch of the new tools follows the appointment of Deputy Attorney General Jamie McKelvey as the DGE’s first responsible gaming coordinator.
McKelvey took on the role last month, with a remit to develop, oversee and implement the DGE’s existing responsible gaming programs as well as future initiatives.
She will also engage with DGE licensees to ensure their ongoing commitment to responsible gaming goals, as well as collaborate with other state, national, and international government agencies on joint efforts.
In addition, McKelvey will collaborate with problem gambling organizations to identify best practices for the prevention, education, awareness and outreach to those at risk.
A graduate of Rutgers Law School, McKelvey has been a Deputy Attorney General for more than four years.