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The basics:

• Responsible Gaming Task Force created by Gov. Phil Murphy releases detailed report
• Rutgers, WalletHub data highlight N.J.’s gambling addiction rates
• Recommendations include education, treatment access and funding reforms

The Responsible Gaming Task Force convened by Gov. Phil Murphy to study problem gambling in the state is out with its findings.

Murphy signed an executive order last June establishing the task force. He convened the group to provide advice in addition to recommendations on this very critical subject. The establishment came on the heels of a 2023 Rutgers report that showed higher numbers of problem gambling in the Garden State versus national trends.

This week, WalletHub also released new findings, ranking New Jersey as the 10th most gambling-addicted state in the country.

“Millions of New Jerseyans participate in various forms of gaming. In fact, nearly three out of four New Jerseyans aged 18 and older have participated in gambling in their lifetime,” the task force wrote in its executive summary:

Studies have shown that many New Jerseyans exhibit gaming patterns that are likely associated with problem gambling. The State of New Jersey embraces responsible gaming and has made efforts to address PG to protect its residents, including through this Task Force. Since its creation in June 2024, the Task Force has met with numerous stakeholders to explore different areas to strengthen RG in New Jersey.

With leadership comes responsibility

The report examined several areas of the problem gambling landscape as well as provided a number of recommendations.

“After a thorough review of existing RG efforts in New Jersey and across the globe, the Task Force submits this report to Governor Murphy with the suggested recommendations for needed changes to standardize and streamline RG initiatives, provide and implement prevention and education programs, make tools and treatment more accessible, and to strategically utilize existing funding and require funding contributions from each gaming industry,” the report stated.

“These recommendations will allow New Jersey to expand RG and PG innovations and actions.”

In a press release, Murphy said, “New Jersey has long been a leader in the gaming industry, and with that leadership comes the responsibility to ensure the well-being of our residents. I appreciate the Task Force’s efforts to create a safer and more supportive gaming environment, particularly for our most vulnerable communities.”

Raising awareness

Attorney General Matthew Platkin chaired the RG Task Force. The AG said he is proud that the Garden State is leading the charge in tackling problem gaming.

“We’ve already recognized nationally for our data-driven responsible gaming tools, and I’m encouraged by our multiagency task force’s thoughtful recommendations to take our efforts even further and strengthen support for those who need it most,” said Platkin.

Sen. John McKeon, D-27th District, is a leading voice on this issue. He commended the task force for its work researching the urgent public health crisis posed by problem gambling in New Jersey — especially among the youth.

“Last year, I introduced a package of bills aiming to better protect children and chronic gamblers, and though I am disappointed that the problem continues to grow, I am glad that this issue is receiving more and more attention from the Governor, the Task Force, and other policymakers,” said McKeon.

“I am committed to working with both the Governor and my colleagues in the Legislature to consider the recommendations made within the report, especially with regard to increasing prevention and education efforts for youth, obtaining more funding for prevention and treatment programs, and the streamlining of the delivery of grants and funding.”

The full report is available here.