The Nevada Gaming Control Board intends to implement the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline after its nationwide release.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has instructed its licensees to modify their responsible gaming messaging.
In a recent memo, the gaming regulator of the world's wealthiest gaming market instructed casinos and other gaming licensees that the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can now be reached at 1-800-GAMBLER.
The Nevada Council on Problem Gambling is the main resource for Nevadans dealing with problem gambling. It's a chapter of the NCPG based in Washington, D.C.
The NCPG adopted this easy-to-remember hotline after the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) agreed last year to allow its use nationwide.
The CCGNJ holds a federally registered trademark on the phone number but struck a deal with the NCPG in 2022 to use the number outside of New Jersey. When someone calls 1-800-GAMBLER within Nevada, they're connected to a specialist trained in problem gambling.
New Materials
In its directive, the NCPG instructed licensees to update their in-house postings and written materials as soon as possible. Nevada law requires all limited and unrestricted licensees to display materials addressing problem gambling.
"Each licensee shall post or provide in conspicuous places in or near gaming and cage areas and cash dispensing machines located in gaming areas written materials concerning the nature and symptoms of problem gambling and the toll-free telephone number of the National Council on Problem Gambling or a similar entity approved by the Board Chair that provides information and referral services for problem gamblers," section 5.170 of the Nevada Gaming Regulation Act reads.
The 1-800-GAMBLER hotline takes the place of the NCPG's old number, 1-800-522-4700. Nevada gaming authorities stated that the previous number will remain functional, as will its accompanying text and chat options.
"As a result, licensees do not need to destroy existing materials or make a hasty switch to the new number to comply with the regulation," the directive stated. "However, all licensees should review their relevant written and web-based materials and make the necessary changes as soon as possible."
The NGCB added that licensees with "When the Fun Stops" pamphlets issued by the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling can request updated leaflets and insert cards for free from the organization.
By the Numbers
The NCPG defines problem gambling as "gambling behavior patterns that interfere with, disrupt, or harm personal, family, or occupational pursuits." It estimates that around 1% of the US adult population, or about two million people, meet the criteria for severe problem gambling disorder. An additional four to six million people are estimated to have a mild or moderate gambling problem.
The NCPG provides self-screening tools on its website, ncpgambling.org. The group doesn't advocate for or against legalized gambling but focuses on helping individuals who develop gambling problems.
The organization was founded in 1972 by Msgr. Joseph Dunne and Dr. Robert Custer, among others. In 1984, the NCPG introduced the curriculum for behavioral health professionals to undergo specialized training to combat gambling disorders.
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Source: www.casino.org
