This summer will see the launch of a brand new initiative designed to tackle problem gambling across the US.
The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NVSEP) is the brainchild of idPair, Inc., a company known for using data to strengthen responsible gambling policies across the country. It has recognized that data can be used as a force for good in the context of responsible gambling policies.
The company has long supported research into gambling addiction, sharing data to create new technology that aims to tackle the root of the problem. The insights and tools developed by idPair, Inc. will soon prove invaluable to the National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NVSEP).
The new initiative goes much further than existing state-wide support, paving the way for a new program of gambling addiction resources and countrywide exclusion tools that could make a significant difference in the rise of problem gambling.
By the numbers
It has been estimated that 2.5 million U.S. adults (1%) meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem in any given year.
A further 5-8 million (2-3%) would be considered to have mild or moderate gambling problems. Put simply, this means that while they might not meet the full diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder, they are experiencing problems as a direct result of gambling.
While the vast majority of US adults are able to gamble in a responsible manner, and have fun doing so, the uncomfortable truth is that for some, gambling causes real problems. These adults are to be supported through this new initiative in a number of different ways.
The premise of NVSEP is as follows:
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Those in need of support for gambling addiction require seamless access to self-exclusion options, regardless of geographical location.
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Aligning data within a single portal will provide better access to regulatory information and enhance the provision of public health resources.
Set to launch
NVSEP is expected to start in New England first. In the months immediately following the launch, the program is set to expand west and south to improve access for those struggling with problem gambling in these states. In time, the program will be available countrywide, a move that should prove hugely beneficial to those needing help with gambling addiction.
Marlene Warner, CEO of the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health (MACGH), has given her full support to the collaborative program.
"A national program has been needed for a long time, and I am thrilled that New England has the potential to lead the way with this remarkable step forward to a more seamless approach to Voluntary Self-Exclusion."
Jonathan Aiwazian, CEO of idPair, also explained that the company is making it as easy as possible for states to join.
“States do not have to change the terms of their individual programs to join NVSEP, a key detail that solves a problem that had held back this advancement in player protection for so long.”
Under the new self-exclusion program, players will be able to choose between state-wide and countrywide options. Those affected by problem gambling will have the option to restrict access to either land-based or online gambling (or both), and they’ll be able to choose exactly where these restrictions should apply.
Current self-exclusion programs are effective but can be inflexible — particularly when we consider the fact that players rarely remain in the state where restrictions apply all the time.
The changes being introduced by the NVSEP will allow players access to a far more comprehensive level of protection, which will travel with them to help them resist temptation when away from home.
