New Jersey Proposes Sweeping New Rules to Combat Problem Gambling
New Jersey is moving to implement one of the most comprehensive and proactive responsible gaming frameworks in the United States, proposing a new set of rules that would require online gaming and sports betting operators to actively identify and intervene with at-risk players.
A Data-Driven System of “Triggers”
At the heart of the new framework is a data-driven system. This system is designed to identify players who exhibit signs of problematic gambling behavior. The rules establish 12 specific “triggers” that will require an operator to flag a customer as potentially at-risk.
These triggers are based on a range of behaviors, including:
- High-Volume Deposits: Depositing more than $10,000 in 24 hours or $100,000 in 90 days.
- Rapidly Increasing Limits: Making three or more consecutive increases to responsible gaming limits within a seven-day period.
- Canceled Withdrawals: Canceling three or more withdrawal requests before they are processed within ten days.
- Increased Time on Site: A 50% or greater increase in the time a player spends on an operator’s platform.
A Mandatory, Three-Phase Intervention Process
Once an operator identifies a player as at-risk, the new rules mandate a three-phase intervention process.
- Phase One: The operator must contact the player to provide information about available responsible gaming tools.
- Phase Two: If the behavior continues, the player must watch a video tutorial on responsible gaming before they can continue to play.
- Phase Three: This is the most direct intervention. A “responsible gaming lead” from the operator must contact the customer via phone or video call to discuss their behavior.
If an operator cannot make direct contact after three attempts, they will temporarily suspend the player’s account. If at-risk behavior continues after a Phase Three intervention, the operator will close the account and refer the player to support resources.
A Broader Push for Player Protection
The proposed DGE rules are not the only responsible gaming initiative in New Jersey. The state is actively working to address a range of issues in the online gambling space.
Governor Phil Murphy recently signed a new law that bans sweepstakes casinos. A separate bill in the legislature would prohibit “micro-betting,” which some experts believe encourages impulsive behavior.
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