NYS declares September as Responsible Gaming Education Month

New York State has officially recognized September as Responsible Gaming Education Month, a significant initiative led by the Responsible Play Partnership (RPP), which includes the New York State Gaming Commission (Commission), the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG).

This collaboration is aimed at reiterating the state’s commitment to ensuring that gaming remains safe and responsible for all participants.

The American Gaming Association has designated September 2024 as a month dedicated to promoting responsible gaming practices, highlighting the industry’s efforts to enhance gaming literacy, consumer education, and employee training. The RPP is actively working with New York State’s gaming industry to provide the necessary resources and tools to foster a responsible gaming environment across various venues.

Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “We are proud to recognize Responsible Gaming Education Month and applaud the gaming industry for taking steps to protect patrons. In New York, we understand that combatting problem gambling is a year-round responsibility, with all stakeholders – gaming operators, regulators, advocates, and clinicians – working together to make a safe and responsible gaming environment.”

Echoing this sentiment, OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham emphasized the importance of accessible support for problem gambling, stating, “As opportunities for gambling continue to increase, it is vital that we ensure all New Yorkers are able to access help and support for problem gambling, in all areas of the state. Working closely with our partners in the Responsible Play Partnership, we continue to expand and enhance our continuum of gambling services throughout New York, as well as educate the public about the importance of responsible gambling and the steps they can take to avoid risks of developing a gambling addiction.”

NYCPG Executive Director Jim Maney added, “We support the gaming industry’s efforts to prevent problem gambling and are proud of the relationships we’ve formed between gaming operators, treatment professionals, and regulators to achieve a common goal – protecting New Yorkers from the harms of problem gambling and ensuring that help is available for those who need it.”

In addition to these collaborative efforts, all gaming operators in New York are required to implement comprehensive responsible gaming plans that include regular employee training, access to services and information for patrons, and other necessary safeguards. The RPP is also developing enhanced training materials specifically designed for video lottery and commercial casino employees, aimed at educating them on recognizing problem gambling behaviors and how to assist individuals exhibiting such behaviors.

New York State boasts a robust voluntary self-exclusion program that allows individuals to bar themselves from any legal gaming opportunities statewide. The RPP is committed to enhancing this program, providing additional support for those who choose to self-exclude, including follow-up calls from HOPEline professionals and tailored services for individuals with problem gambling experiences.

For those seeking assistance with the self-exclusion process, the NYCPG offers a free Voluntary Self Exclusion Support Program, which can be accessed via VSESupport@nycpg.org or at 518-903-0217. This program provides clear explanations of the self-exclusion process, connects individuals to treatment providers, and assists with necessary forms, including notarization.

OASAS is continually analyzing demographic data of self-excluded individuals to better tailor public awareness campaigns and services. The RPP was established to unite all stakeholders in addressing problem gambling, bridging the gap between gaming facility operators and treatment providers.