As one of the first states to legalize sports betting after the repeal of the PASPA, and due to its high-profile casinos, New Jersey has long been associated with gambling. This, however, has sparked significant problem gambling concerns, leading to new gambling education requirements that the state’s colleges and universities will have to follow.
Colleges Will Be Required to Host CCGNJ Representatives
Per a new bill, the Garden State’s public colleges, community colleges, and universities will have to invite and facilitate the presence of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) at least once per semester.
In addition to hosting CCGNJ representatives, colleges and universities will be required to make sure that students have access to safer gambling counseling, materials, and tools.
The CCGNJ, as its name suggests, is a local charity organization seeking to tackle problem gambling and protect public health from the industry’s adverse effects. To that end, the non-profit continues to champion awareness and education, making sure that younger players are aware of the risks associated with gambling. The council also owns and operates the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline.
The Requirements Secured Strong Bipartisan Support
The new requirements were outlined in Assembly Bill 1715 and its Senate counterpart, Senate Bill 3184. The bipartisan measure was signed by Governor Phil Murphy shortly before the end of his tenure. Murphy commented on the signing, highlighting New Jersey’s continued commitment to promoting responsible gaming and supporting the well-being of students across the state. He added:
By connecting campus communities with expert resources, we’re taking proactive steps to address gambling-related harm before it takes root.
Phil Murphy
Assembly Bill 1715 secured unanimous support, passing by a 77-0 vote. The same happened to its Senate counterpart, which passed by a 38-0 vote.
At the same time, New Jersey lawmakers are eyeing a ban on gambling ads near public colleges.
Smoking Ban Supporters Were Let Down
While many praised Murphy’s decision to introduce new gambling education requirements, casino workers pushing for a ban on indoor smoking were let down due to Murphy’s continued reluctance to take action and end the loophole allowing smoking inside casinos.
Casino workers in the state have been demanding a smoking ban for years, arguing that it jeopardizes their health. Many hoped that Murphy would sign such a ban before his exit from office.