New Jersey’s state Senate and Assembly both approved Bill A1715 without a single opposing vote. The Assembly voted 77-0 back in March. Senate approval came through 38-0 on December 18.
Governor Phil Murphy now holds the final decision. If he signs, every public university and community college in New Jersey must host the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey on campus twice per year. The requirements kick in immediately.
CCGNJ runs the national 1-800-Gambler helpline. They’ll bring information about gambling risks directly to students.
Why Legislators Expanded Campus Gambling Education
College-age adults face growing exposure to sports betting. New Jersey wanted a direct response.
The bill started in 2023 with narrower aims. It originally targeted only schools that partnered with betting operators. But things changed fast.
In July, New Jersey banned all college partnerships with sports betting companies. That shift pushed legislators to broaden A1715. Now it covers every state-funded higher education institution.
The timing isn’t random. Sports betting revenue keeps climbing in New Jersey, and lawmakers see young adults as particularly vulnerable.
What CCGNJ Will Provide on Campus
The organisation must visit each campus at least once per semester. They’ll set up information sessions about compulsive gambling risks.
Students can learn about counselling services. Self-exclusion options will be explained too.
These aren’t optional presentations. Schools must schedule them under the new law. CCGNJ has decades of experience running problem gambling programs, so they’ll handle the content.
The legislation sat dormant for nearly two years before lawmakers acted. But once it moved, both chambers approved it immediately.
How This Fits New Jersey’s Gambling Strategy
Attorney General Matthew Platkin launched GamFin in September. The free financial counselling service targets residents struggling with gambling-related money problems. Sessions happen online, covering budgets and debt management.
The Division of Gaming Enforcement runs the program. It shows the state’s taking multiple approaches to problem gambling prevention.
And the gambling market keeps growing. November revenue hit $636.2 million across New Jersey. That’s up 14.2% from the same month last year.
With betting revenue rising and college students getting easier access to gambling apps, the state’s layering on protective measures. Campus education joins financial counselling as part of that broader effort.
Governor Murphy hasn’t indicated his timeline for signing. But given the unanimous legislative support, approval seems likely.
