Share
The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement is proposing a new set of responsible-play regulations to flag at-risk players. The rules aim to identify, monitor and assist players showing signs of gambling addiction.
The proposal is one of the most comprehensive frameworks in the United States for addressing gambling addiction. Given the rapid expansion of online casinos and sports betting nationwide, regulators say the rules come at the right time.
Stronger rules, safer play: How the DGE plans to protect gamblers
To address the problem, the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) drafted rules to establish clear standards for licensed operators. Known as New Jersey Admin Code 13:69O-1.2A, the proposal includes several requirements aimed at increasing player protection.
Under the rules, all casinos and sportsbooks must appoint at least one “responsible gaming lead.” The lead, an employee of the casino or sportsbook, will track player activity and identify patrons at risk of developing a gambling problem. Once identified, the lead must promptly reach out to players who show signs of harmful play.
Spotting problem gambling early: The red flags regulators watch
According to the proposal, operators must monitor player behavior for specific warning signs, including:
- Deposits exceeding $10,000 a day or $100,000 within 90 days
- Multiple visits to self-exclusion pages (more than three times in 30 days) without completing the process
- Repeated requests for “cool-off” periods in a short time frame
- Regularly increasing deposit or loss limits
- Frequently placing and then canceling withdrawal requests without cashing out
Repeatedly displaying these behaviors signals a player may be at risk. Operators would be required to add such players to intervention lists.
New Jersey’s three-step plan to strengthen responsible gambling
The DGE’s N.J.A.C. 13:69O-1.2A proposal also includes a three-step intervention program:
- Phase One: Operators contact the player directly and provide information on responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion, deposit limits and time restrictions.
- Phase Two: If risky activity continues, the operator may temporarily suspend betting until the player views a brief, state-approved tutorial video. The video highlights the dangers of gambling addiction and available recovery resources.
- Phase Three: The responsible gaming lead makes direct contact and offers to refer the player to a licensed professional. Operators must pay for this service. If the player does not respond, the account will remain suspended until meaningful contact is made.
The system is designed to balance education, accountability and mandatory intervention.
Beyond monitoring: NJ adds more layers of player protection
The rules also bar operators from pressuring players to cancel withdrawal requests. Once a withdrawal is initiated, operators cannot encourage reversal for at least three days.
Another provision requires operators to collect additional demographic details, including verified gender information. Regulators say this will improve reporting and provide a clearer picture of the communities most affected by gambling-related harm.
What new responsible gambling rules mean for players and casinos
If adopted, the rules would create a safer gambling environment for New Jersey players. The system is meant to trigger outreach before severe financial or personal harm occurs, allowing players to use responsible gambling support earlier.
For operators, the changes mean higher compliance costs. Betting platforms will need to invest in advanced monitoring systems and employee training. While challenging, regulators argue the safeguards will build trust and help operators attract loyal customers over the long term.
Protecting bettors is essential to gaming industry growth
The proposal is open for public comment until mid-November. Casinos, advocacy groups and residents can submit feedback during this period.
Regardless of the input, regulators say the trend is clear: New Jersey is taking a more proactive approach to problem gambling. Protecting at-risk bettors, they argue, is essential for the industry’s sustainable growth.
