The Garden State is taking new steps to address gambling-related problems.
On Friday, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 360 to create a Responsible Gaming Task Force in the state. The task force will give the Governor and Attorney General’s offices recommendations for addressing problem gambling and reforming and implementing responsible gaming measures across the state.
While the advisory body is expected to report periodically over the coming year, a final report is expected by March 31, 2025.
“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," said Governor Murphy. "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.”
Led by the Attorney General, who will serve as Chairman, the task force will comprise six more public officials, including the chair of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, Director of the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, Director of the Division of State Lottery, Executive Director of the New Jersey Racing Commission, and Commissioner of the Department of Human Services.
A press release from the Governor’s Office cites a 2023 report from the Rutgers University Center for Gambling Studies, stating that 6% of NJ residents were at high risk of problem gambling compared to the national average of 1-2%. The Governor's Executive Order comes amidst a statewide drop in sports betting revenue in May.
Attorney General Matt Platkin commented on the decision, “I applaud Governor 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.”
