Posted on: November 6, 2023, 10:01h.
Last updated on: November 6, 2023, 10:01h.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has instructed its licensees to update their responsible gaming messaging in light of recent developments.
The NGCB has informed all casinos and gaming license holders that the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can now be contacted at the toll-free number 1-800-GAMBLER. This resource is available to assist individuals dealing with problem gambling in Nevada. The NCPG also has a chapter in Washington, DC.
While the NCPG holds the trademark for the telephone number, they collaborated with the NCPG in 2022 to use the number outside of New Jersey. Individuals dialing 1-800-GAMBLER within Nevada will be connected to a specialist trained in addressing problem gambling.
Updated Materials
Licensees have been urged by the NCPG to promptly update their in-house postings and written materials. According to state law, all restricted and nonrestricted licensees are required to display information relating to problem gambling.
Section 5.170 of the Nevada Gaming Regulation law states that each licensee must prominently display written materials about problem gambling, including its nature and symptoms, as well as the toll-free telephone number of the National Council on Problem Gambling or an approved entity that provides information and referral services for problem gamblers.
The widely recognized 1-800-GAMBLER hotline now replaces the NCPG’s previous number of 1-800-522-4700. The old number will continue to operate, along with its corresponding text and chat services.
The NGCB clarifies that licensees are not required to discard existing materials or make immediate changes to implement the new number. However, they should review their relevant written and online materials and make any necessary updates as soon as possible.
Furthermore, licensees who currently distribute “When the Fun Stops” brochures from the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling can order updated handouts and insert cards at no cost from the organization.
By the Numbers
According to the NCPG, problem gambling refers to gambling behaviors that have negative effects on personal, family, or professional life. The nonprofit organization estimates that approximately 1% of adult Americans, equivalent to roughly two million individuals, meet the criteria for severe problem gambling disorder. An additional four to six million people are classified as having a mild to moderate gambling problem.
For self-screening tools and more information, individuals can visit the NCPG website at ncpgambling.org. The council neither supports nor opposes legalized gambling but is dedicated to assisting those who develop gambling problems.
The NCPG was founded in 1972 by Msgr. Joseph Dunne and Dr. Robert Custer, among others. In 1984, the organization established a specialized training curriculum for behavioral health experts to address gambling disorders.