New Jersey Pushes Responsible Gambling Rules

Regulators in New Jersey have given out draft rules that would standardize how casinos and sportsbooks handle responsible gaming. 

Instead of mainly relying on voluntary measures, the proposal would make key protections mandatory, like setting clear play limits, identifying risky behavior, and stepping in when players show signs of problem gambling.

How Operators Will Monitor and Support At-Risk Players

The Division of Gaming Enforcement announced the initiative at the beginning of the week. Under this new arrangement, operators would have to immediately review accounts that show notable signs, For instance, daily deposits above $10,000 or $100,000 over a three-month span.

Under the proposed rules, each online gaming operator would be required to assign a responsible gambling officer whose role is to oversee players who may be showing risky behavior and ensure they receive appropriate support. In extreme situations, this could involve temporarily or permanently freezing a player’s account.

Steps to Protect Players Showing Risky Behavior

The regulations identify specific warning signs that trigger closer evaluation. Beyond high deposits, like more than $10,000 in a day or $100,000 over three months, these red flags include repeatedly accessing self-exclusion options without following through, requesting multiple cooling-off periods in a short time, frequently increasing deposit or loss limits, or placing unusually high amounts of bets. 

Other signs include finishing sessions with almost no funds remaining, canceling multiple withdrawals in a short span, logging in significantly more than normal, or consistently increasing wagers from one session to the next. Operators or the state gaming authority can also flag any other concerning behavior they believe is necessary.

Procedures to Address Problem Gambling Online

If a player is identified as at risk, operators must follow a step-by-step procedure. First, they send an email highlighting responsible gambling tools and support services. Next, betting is blocked until the player completes an approved educational video.

Finally, the responsible gambling officer must reach out directly via phone or video. If three attempts fail, the account stays frozen until contact is made. Should risky behavior continue after these measures, the operator has the authority to close the account permanently.

References

• Division Of Gaming Enforcement