New Jersey governor signs bill to promote compulsive gambling awareness on college campuses
Phil Murphy has signed a bill requiring the state’s public schools to work with the Council on Compulsive Gambling.
US.- New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed a bill requiring state-run schools to work with the Council on Compulsive Gambling to raise awareness of gambling risks. The proposal passed both chambers unanimously.
Under bill A1715/S3184, all public colleges, universities, and community colleges in the state are required to invite and facilitate the presence of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey on their campuses at least once per semester. These visits will provide students with information on the risks associated with gambling, access to compulsive gambling counseling services and details about self-exclusion programs and other available support resources.
Governor Murphy said: “Today’s signing demonstrates our continued commitment to promoting responsible gaming and supporting the well-being of students across New Jersey. By connecting campus communities with expert resources, we’re taking proactive steps to address gambling-related harm before it takes root.”
The bill was primarily sponsored by Senators Joseph Cryan and John McKeon, and Assemblyman Garnet Hall.
Senator Joseph Cryan, chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee, added: “The proliferation of sports betting by college students is a troubling trend that can have a destructive impact on their lives. Research shows that young people are especially vulnerable to compulsive gambling and can have a difficult time breaking the habit once it becomes ingrained. Our state schools have a responsibility to act to protect them from the negative influences that promote the practice.”
Senator John McKeon commented: “Since the expansion of online gaming and sports betting, we’ve seen a troubling rise in problem gambling, especially among inexperienced young adults on college campuses. This legislation takes a preventative approach by ensuring that students have direct access to data-driven information and resources from the Council on Compulsive Gambling throughout their college careers, helping to educate them before they are negatively impacted.”
Assemblywoman Garnet Hall stated: “College should be a time of opportunity, not silent struggle. This law connects students with the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, giving them access to education and support services that can make a real difference in their well-being.”
