New Jersey Creates Responsible Gambling Task Force

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed Executive Order 360 to establish the Responsible Gambling Task Force to battle problem gambling in the Garden State.

New Jersey Governor's Office cited a 2023 study revealing that 6% of residents are at a high risk for problem gambling

In a press release announcing the new Task Force, the Governor’s Office cited a 2023 study from the Rutgers University Center for Gambling Studies. According to the report, 6% of New Jersey residents are at high risk for problem gambling. The figure is much higher than the national average of just 1% to 2%.

“New Jersey is known to be a gaming destination with historic locations like Atlantic City, amusement gaming at the Jersey Shore, notable horse racing venues, and more,” Gov. Murphy said in a prepared statement.

“This Task Force will see to it that we maintain our global leadership in gaming by ensuring that we have the tools needed to address problem gaming for our residents.”

Additionally, Attorney General Matt Platkin will serve as the chairman of the Task Force, with the rest of the team consisting of six other total members: New Jersey Casino Control Commission chairman James Plouisis, New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement director Mary Jo Flaherty, New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs director Cari Fais, Division of State Lottery director James Carey Jr., Department of Human Services commissioner Sarah Adelman, and New Jersey Racing Commission interim executive director Thomas Salerno.

Task Force will consult with experts, representatives of regulated entities to promote responsible gambling

According to the Executive Order, the Task Force will consult with experts, representatives of regulated entities or other knowledgeable individuals in the public or private sector with respect to any aspect of its mission. A final report is due to the Governor’s Office by March 31, 2025.

Attorney General Platkin added: “I applaud Gov. Murphy for his leadership in elevating responsible gaming initiatives through the establishment of a statewide task force.

“New Jersey has been a national leader in casino and sports wagering for many years, and we owe it to our residents to review and expand our existing efforts on problem gambling.

“This Task Force demonstrates that ‘responsible gaming' is not merely a buzzword in New Jersey but a critical issue that demands the attention of government entities, industry, and stakeholders.

“As chair of the Task Force, I'm eager to get underway in examining ways to bring attention to and support the prevention and treatment of gambling disorder.”

Furthermore, New York recently passed a bill requiring sports betting and gambling advertisements to include warnings about the potentially harmful and addictive effects of gambling.