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To foster a secure gambling environment, the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) launched a voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) support program. This initiative empowers individuals who recognize a potential gambling addiction to voluntarily exclude themselves from all gambling facilities and activities across New York.
James Maney, the executive director of NYCPG, highlighted that the enrollment process for this exclusion is now more accessible. He said potential participants can easily sign up from the convenience of their homes.
Protocols for NY’s voluntary self-exclusion support program
Through the voluntary self-exclusion support initiative, individuals opting in will be prohibited from engaging in sports betting and accessing any gambling facility within the state.
Once enrolled in the VSE Support Program, whether through online notary services or authorized gambling facilities in the Empire State, NYCPG staff will offer specific services to the participant, including:
- Providing a clear and simple explanation of the self-exclusion program and all relevant details
- Assisting the participant in completing the necessary forms, including notarization
- Facilitating connections between the participant and problem gambling treatment providers while also supplying information on counseling, recovery services, and other support groups
Executive director of the New York State Gaming Commission, Robert Williams, also commented in the news release on the provisions of the VSE Support Program.
“The Gaming Commission is committed to ensuring that licensed facilities operate in responsible and sensitive matters for those who need help. The New York Council on Problem Gambling’s VSE Support Program provides those individuals with the knowledge and resources to make the best decisions for their welfare.”
NYCPG receives funding from OASAS
The Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) funds NYCPG, a not-for-profit independent corporation. While OASAS periodically conducts campaigns on the risks of problem gambling, its responsibilities extend beyond raising awareness to include advocating for recovery and providing support services for those affected.
OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said: “OASAS oversees a robust system of prevention, treatment, harm reduction and recovery services for those affected by addiction across the state, including problem gambling.
Voluntary self-exclusion can be an effective prevention strategy to reduce gambling harms, and this new support program not only provides a way for people to complete the self-exclusion process but also offers an opportunity to connect to OASAS local problem gambling community support services to assist in mitigating further harm.”
New York seeks a Problem Gambling Advisory Council
New York has become a prominent player in the online gambling scene, necessitating a heightened focus on responsible gambling bodies. However, efforts to establish a Problem Gambling Advisory Council (PGAC) in the state have faced delays in the Assembly.
Across the United States, responsible gambling initiatives are in full swing, given the thriving nature of the gambling market. Many states have successfully implemented their self-exclusion services, though the specifics of their operations vary.
However, a bigger question is how one can recognize they have a gambling problem or have the tendency to become a problem gambler. Some manuals have suggested that individuals should reassess and question themselves if they resort to extreme measures like stealing money solely to engage in gambling activities.
Residents of the Empire State interested in participating in the NYCPG’s VSE Support Program inquiries can be directed to VSESupport@nycpg.org or by calling 518-903-0217.
