Share 
Problem gamblers in New Jersey could soon have a simpler way to block themselves from wagering across state lines.
Senate Bill 2055 advanced out of the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism and Historic Preservation Committee on June 11, moving the legislation forward in the 2026 session. The bill would authorize the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement to participate in a national or multi-state self-exclusion program for gambling activities.
If enacted, individuals could voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling in multiple participating states through a single application instead of registering separately in each jurisdiction.
Proposal aims to simplify New Jersey’s self-exclusion
New Jersey already operates a voluntary self-exclusion program covering casinos, online sportsbooks and iGaming platforms. The Division of Gaming Enforcement administers the program and works with licensed operators to enforce restrictions.
Currently, however, those exclusions apply only within New Jersey. Anyone seeking similar protections in another state must complete a separate process.
Senate Bill 2055 aims to streamline that system by allowing New Jersey to join broader self-exclusion networks shared across participating states. Under the proposal, individuals could select which states they want included and submit one consolidated form.
The legislation would also permit New Jersey to enter agreements with other states to recognize and enforce each jurisdiction’s self-exclusion lists.
Bill limits data sharing between states
The bill includes provisions designed to protect participant privacy.
Under the legislation, the Division of Gaming Enforcement could not share a person’s information with another state unless the participant specifically authorizes it. Individuals would retain control over which states receive their information.
According to news by PlayNJ, the DGE would also be responsible for creating the rules, forms and procedures needed to administer any multi-state agreements or national program participation.
Bipartisan support behind responsible gambling measure
The legislation is sponsored by Sen. Vince Polistina, whose district includes Atlantic City. Democratic Sens. John McKeon and Vin Gopal are co-sponsors.
Lawmakers have previously explored similar legislation, though earlier efforts did not advance through the full legislative process.
Supporters argue the issue has become more pressing as legalized sports betting and online gambling continue expanding across the United States. More than 30 states now offer legal sports wagering, creating situations where individuals excluded in one state can still gamble legally in neighboring jurisdictions.
Advocates say a coordinated system could help close those gaps while making responsible gambling tools easier to access.
New Jersey expands responsible gambling agenda
Senate Bill 2055 is part of a wider push in New Jersey to strengthen responsible gambling and consumer protection measures.
Lawmakers this year have advanced proposals focused on sportsbook account restrictions, gambling advertising practices and responsible gaming safeguards. Other measures would require educational materials before individuals remove themselves from self-exclusion lists and expand access to tools such as deposit limits, time alerts and spending controls.
New Jersey has long been considered one of the leading regulatory markets for online gambling and sports betting in the US. Supporters say a multi-state self-exclusion framework would build on that reputation while improving protections for vulnerable players.
Bill still requires full legislative approval
The bill must still receive approval from both chambers of the Legislature before reaching the governor’s desk.
If signed into law, New Jersey would join a growing effort to improve coordination between states on responsible gambling measures.
For individuals struggling with gambling addiction, supporters say the ability to complete one application instead of multiple state-by-state submissions could remove barriers to seeking help.
