Voluntary Self-exclusion Process Improved to Quickly Connect Individuals with Help

New York State’s Responsible Play Partnership (RPP), consisting of the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG), the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York State Gaming Commission, continues to improve the voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) process at gaming facilities across the state.

The NYCPG has launched a new free VSE Support Program to help individuals who recognize they may have a gambling problem quickly find the resources they need to exclude themselves from gambling activities in New York State.

VSE, which allows individuals to ban themselves from gambling activities, can be an effective tool at reducing the harm caused by problem gambling. By voluntarily self-excluding oneself, they are barred from entering any gaming establishment or partaking in any gambling activity in New York State, including sports wagering.

According to OASAS’ 2020 Problem Gambling Prevalence Survey, 4.4% of adults in NY are at risk for developing a gambling problem and an additional 0.7% meet the criteria for problem gambling or a gambling disorder.

When an individual seeks to self-exclude at a licensed gaming facility in New York State, staff from the NYCPG are now available to:

• Explain the self-exclusion process in plain language
• Connect the individual to a problem gambling treatment provider, as well as information for counseling, peer support and recovery services
• Assist with completing the VSE necessary forms, including notarization.

NYCPG Executive Director James Maney said: “Assisting those in need of help through providing care and concern is at the core of what NYCPG does, and the launch of this new program exemplifies that care and concern by breaking down barriers. The new online notary services make it easier for individuals to complete remote VSE, while also connecting to one of our caring staff members who are knowledgeable about the process.”

OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said: “OASAS oversees a robust system of prevention, treatment, harm reduction and recovery services for those affected by addiction across the state, including problem gambling. Voluntary self- exclusion can be an effective prevention strategy to reduce gambling harms, and this new support program not only provides a way for people to complete the self-exclusion process, but also offers an opportunity to connect to OASAS local problem gambling community support services to assist in mitigating further harm.”

New York State Gaming Commission Executive Director Robert Williams said: “The Gaming Commission is committed to ensuring that licensed facilities operate in responsible and sensitive matters for those who need help. The New York Council on Problem Gambling’s VSE Support Program provides those individuals with the knowledge and resources to make the best decisions for their welfare.”