New Jersey Introduces New Online Gambling Rules to Protect Players

Key Highlights

New Jersey has introduced a first-of-its-kind responsible gambling regulatory system that emphasizes proactive measures, putting greater responsibility on operators to recognize customer warning signs.

New Jersey Sets New Rules for Online Gambling Safety

Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and the Division of Gaming Enforcement announced the regulatory changes on October 20. The state says these are the first data-driven responsible gambling requirements written into regulations and backed by law. New Jersey is already a national leader in responsible gambling, with its statewide self-exclusion request system and a rule requiring operators to employ responsible gaming staff. Lawmakers have also introduced a bill that would require operators to send monthly gambling activity alerts to players.

New Jersey’s new rules apply to online gaming operators and require them to monitor customer activity for warning signs. Companies must appoint an employee to oversee responsible gambling efforts and keep records of interventions for five-year periods. They must also keep a list of customers identified as being at risk following account reviews.

Additional changes give players added protection when managing their accounts. Operators can no longer allow customers to reverse withdrawals during the first three days of processing, while the minimum voluntary cooling-off period has been extended to 72 hours. These breaks temporarily stop players from accessing their online gambling accounts.

Betting Activity & Account Changes That Trigger Reviews

The regulations outline several warning signs that require operators to review a player’s gambling activity. An account review is required when a player deposits more than $10,000 in 24 hours or $100,000 within 90 days. These deposit limits are among the warning signs operators must monitor. A review is also required when an account records more than $1 million in total gambling activity over 90 days.

Other warning signs include repeated requests to take a break from gambling, frequent increases in betting limits, and multiple canceled withdrawals. Operators must also review accounts when a player’s weekly login time increases by 50% or more compared with the previous two weeks. A review is also required if a player ends two gambling sessions in one week with less than $1 left in their account.

These checks are intended to identify possible gambling problems before they become more serious. A review can also follow repeated requests for self-exclusion or a rise in betting frequency. Operators must assess these patterns and decide whether further action is needed.

Three Intervention Stages & New Player Protections

New Jersey’s approach uses three intervention stages based on the concerns identified. During Phase 1, operators send players emails explaining responsible gambling tools and available support services. Phase 2 requires players to watch an educational video before they can place additional bets.

Phase 3 involves direct contact with customers to discuss possible gambling problems. Accounts must be suspended after three unsuccessful contact attempts, while continued warning signs following intervention can lead to closure. Operators must also stop sending promotional offers and advertisements to customers in Phases 2 and 3.

“New Jersey continues to lead the way in developing data-driven best practices for internet gaming and online sports wagering,” said New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill. “We continue to work to make the online world safer and to focus on safeguards that protect people’s well-being and help connect those who are struggling with the support they need.”