Governor Signs Executive Order to Tackle Problem Gambling
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has taken decisive action to address the state’s rising gambling addiction issues by signing Executive Order No. 360. This order creates the Responsible Gaming Task Force, an advisory body focused on developing strategies to reduce problem gambling and encourage responsible gaming practices across New Jersey.
Task Force to Tackle High Problem Gambling Rates
The new task force will provide regular updates over the next year, culminating in a comprehensive report by March 31, 2025. Led by Attorney General Matt Platkin, the task force includes six additional public officials from various state departments, such as the New Jersey Casino Control Commission and the Division of Gaming Enforcement.
Governor Murphy highlighted New Jersey’s status as a major gaming destination, with attractions like Atlantic City and numerous gaming venues. He emphasized the task force’s mission to address the negative impacts of problem gambling, ensuring the state remains a global leader in the gaming industry while safeguarding its residents.
A 2023 report from the Rutgers University Center for Gambling Studies revealed that 6% of New Jersey residents are at high risk for problem gambling, a rate much higher than the national average of 1-2%. This concerning statistic highlights the urgency of the task force’s work, especially for vulnerable groups, including Black and Hispanic communities.
Focus on Online and Sports Betting Among Youth
Attorney General Platkin praised Governor Murphy’s initiative, recognizing New Jersey’s leadership in casino and sports betting. Platkin stressed that responsible gaming requires a collaborative effort from government bodies, the gaming industry, and other stakeholders. As chair of the task force, he is committed to exploring ways to prevent and treat gambling disorders, ensuring responsible gaming is a priority in the state.
The task force will examine the impact of gambling on underage and vulnerable populations, develop strategies for responsible gaming, and make policy recommendations to combat gambling addiction. It will also seek input from experts and representatives from both public and private sectors to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
This initiative responds to various challenges, including a recent decline in sports betting revenue and the increasing prevalence of online and sports betting, which has made gambling more accessible, especially to younger audiences. It also aligns with legislative efforts by officials like Senator John McKeon, who has proposed several bills to address issues related to online gaming and sports wagering.
Proposed Legislative Changes to Enhance Service Member Welfare
A member of the U.S. Congress has taken a significant step by proposing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), aiming to eliminate slot machines from military bases. The initiative, led by Rep. Paul Tonko from New York’s 20th district, targets the reduction of gambling addiction risks among military personnel.
Rationale Behind the Amendment
Rep. Tonko, in his engagement with Military.com, expressed a deep concern about the rising tide of gambling problems within the military community. His amendment, one of over 1,300 being considered, is designed to curb the availability of slot machines on bases, thus prioritizing the mental and financial health of service members.
Historical Context and Financial Implications
Slot machines were reintroduced to overseas military bases in the 1970s as a strategy to keep service members from engaging in gambling activities outside the base. Despite generating more than $100 million annually from over 3,000 machines across 12 countries, these installations have raised concerns regarding their impact on the service members’ financial security and morale.
Studies Indicate Increased Risk Among Military Personnel
Research from Rutgers University suggests that individuals in active service and veterans are notably more prone to gambling issues than civilians. This finding led Congress to require that gambling disorder questions be included in annual health screenings for military personnel. Reports following these screenings confirmed the high prevalence of gambling disorders, underscoring the need for decisive legislative action.
Comprehensive Measures Against Gambling Addiction
Beyond his NDAA amendment, Rep. Tonko is advocating for broader legislation to address gambling addiction. His efforts include the regulation of online sports betting and the implementation of robust measures to protect those at risk from the detrimental effects of excessive gambling.
Conclusion: A Call to Action for Service Member Protection
As discussions continue, Rep. Tonko’s initiative highlights a crucial aspect of military welfare—protecting service members from gambling-related harm. His amendment not only reflects an understanding of the unique challenges faced by military personnel but also a commitment to creating a supportive and safe environment for those who dedicate their lives to national service.
The French gambling industry is under pressure to enhance its efforts in combating problem gambling and promoting responsible gambling practices. In a collaborative effort, the country’s gambling mediator, Médiateur des Jeux, and the industry regulator, Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ), have released an annual report emphasizing the need for operators to take decisive action in preventing excessive gambling among players.
Delayed Account Suspensions:
Denys Millet, France’s gambling mediator and an honorary magistrate, expressed concern over the tendency of French operators to delay or reject account suspension measures. Millet stressed the importance of implementing these measures promptly when players exhibit signs of losing control, such as failing to respond to prevention messages, avoiding contact, or increasing their deposits and bets significantly. By engaging in open dialogue with gamblers, operators can offer better support and identify individuals struggling with excessive or pathological gambling.
Insufficient Referrals for Addiction:
The report highlighted a discrepancy between the number of referrals for addiction issues and the actual prevalence of problem gambling in France. While there has been an increase in complaints related to account closures for players who do not self-identify as problem gamblers, the overall number of referrals remains low. The last comprehensive report on excessive gambling in France dates back to 2019, with an updated version expected by the end of the current year.
Fraudulent Activity and Account Closures:
The mediator addressed the issue of operators unilaterally confiscating players’ deposits when suspicions arise regarding the authenticity of provided documents. The report emphasized that operators must provide clear and factual reasons for account closures and should not seize deposits without proper justification. Account closures are deemed acceptable if a report of suspicious activity is submitted to TRACFIN, France’s financial tracking unit, or if the operator can prove that the bets were placed illegally.
Fair Terms and Conditions:
While acknowledging operators’ right to cancel bets placed on the same selection within a short timeframe, the mediator cautioned against the abuse of “potestative” terms, which are solely dependent on the operator’s discretion. Particular attention should be paid when such terms are applied to winning bets.
Informing Players of Inactivity Closures:
The report recommends that operators inform players of impending account closures due to inactivity after 11 months, providing them with the opportunity to either continue playing or close their account without incurring charges. This measure aims to promote transparency and fairness in the handling of dormant accounts.
Mediator’s Workload and Efficiency:
In 2023, the mediator handled a total of 1,523 player requests for intervention, marking an 11% increase compared to the previous year. The vast majority of these requests (91%) pertained to disputes between sports bettors and bookmakers. The report revealed that 752 requests were deemed inadmissible, primarily due to the lack of a prior written complaint to the operators (89%). Despite the volume of cases, the mediator maintained an average processing time of 31 days, well within the 90-day limit set by France’s Consumer Code. Notably, 30% of the requests received either partial or total satisfaction.
Conclusion:
The French gambling industry finds itself at a critical juncture, with the mediator and regulator calling for a concerted effort to strengthen player protection measures and promote responsible gambling practices. By implementing the recommendations outlined in the annual report, operators can demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding players, identifying and supporting those at risk of excessive gambling, and fostering a safer and more sustainable gambling environment in France. The industry must prioritize player well-being and take proactive steps to address the concerns raised by the mediator and regulator, ensuring the long-term integrity and viability of the gambling sector.
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A New Era for Online Gaming Regulation
Online slots, a major player in the UK’s digital gambling scene, have seen their revenues soar to £3.2 billion, capturing nearly 30% of the country’s non-lottery gambling income. Recognizing the risks associated with unchecked gambling, the UK government is taking a significant step to regulate the burgeoning £11 billion industry by introducing stake limits on online slot machines.
Details from the White Paper
Outlined in a comprehensive white paper by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in April 2023, these new regulations mark a pivotal change. Starting from September 2024, bet limits will be enforced; adults aged 25 and over can place up to £5 per spin, while those between 18 and 24 will be restricted to £2. This initiative aims to align online play with the controlled environments of land-based casinos, which already have similar restrictions.
Community and Industry Feedback
After a 10-week consultation, feedback from industry stakeholders, academics, and treatment providers largely supported the introduction of these stake limits. This strategic move is designed to lessen the risks of gambling-related harm, which has been a growing concern with the accessibility of online slots.
Minister’s Insights
Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew emphasized the prevalence of safe gambling practices among millions daily. However, he also acknowledged the disproportionately high rates of problem gambling associated with online slots. This initiative aims to create a safer gambling environment while maintaining the industry’s integrity and accessibility for responsible users.
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Trends and Growth in Slot Gaming
The Gambling Commission’s latest report highlights the continued growth of slot gaming. The gross gaming yield for slots rose by 11% in the first quarter of 2024, with more than 21.9 billion spins recorded in the final quarter alone. The report also shows an increase in both the number of sessions lasting over an hour and the monthly active accounts, signifying a robust engagement from players.
This regulatory update aims to balance the thrill of gaming with necessary safeguards, ensuring the long-term sustainability of online gambling in the UK while protecting its participants.
In a swift response to increasing scrutiny and criticism, online casino giant 888.com has announced it will pull its gambling advertisements from London’s public transport system. The decision emerges amidst a heated debate over advertising practices on the city’s tubes, buses, and taxis, intensified by disapproval from London Mayor Sadiq Khan and mounting political pressures.
Controversial Advertising Raises Eyebrows
In recent weeks, London’s public transport has been adorned with slogans like “This carriage is now a casino” and “Fancy a spin?” as part of 888.com’s latest advertising blitz. However, these promotions, coinciding with the upcoming mayoral elections on May 2, 2024, have sparked significant backlash. Critics, including Khan’s political adversaries and addiction specialists, have labeled the campaign’s messaging as inappropriate, especially when juxtaposed against Transport for London’s refusal to advertise everyday products like cheese and strawberries on health grounds.
Political and Public Backlash
Critics argue that the mayor’s advertising standards lack consistency. Susan Hall, a Conservative challenger, voiced concerns over the mayor’s seemingly arbitrary decisions on permissible advertisements, calling for a more transparent and sensible approach. Additionally, experts like Prof. Henrietta Bowden-Jones and the House of Lords’ Peers for Gambling Reform have decried the aggressive nature of these gambling ads.
Financial Implications and Regulatory Scrutiny
Transport for London has reportedly earned approximately £1.8 million from gambling advertisements over the past two years. Meanwhile, 888.com has faced fines totaling around £17.2 million from 2017 to 2022 due to compliance failures. The broader context includes actions by over 80 UK councils to curb gambling advertisements.
888.com’s Reaction to Feedback
An 888.com spokesperson acknowledged the public’s reception of their campaign, stating that the campaign’s message might be misinterpreted despite adhering to advertising standards. This acknowledgment has led to the strategic withdrawal of certain advertisements, marking a pivotal change in their promotional tactics.
Moving Forward
As election day approaches, Mayor Khan faces increased scrutiny over his administration’s stance on advertising ethics and practices. With an independent review of gambling harms already commissioned, London’s policy on gambling advertisements remains a focal point in the broader debate on public health and safety in advertising.
