The New Jersey Lottery, in association with the Council on Compulsive Gambling New Jersey (CCGNJ), has launched the latest edition of its annual anti-underage gambling campaign.
The campaign, branded ‘Not 18 Yet? No Bet’, is designed to ‘remind residents and retailers that New Jersey law prohibits the sale of lottery tickets to or by anyone under the age of 18.’
A lottery executive has featured on CCGNJ’s board of directors since June 1999 and the two organisations say they are committed to fighting underage gambling and the potential problem gambling that can arise from that.
A campaign brochure will be distributed across the state as well as online resources being made available to ensure that users understand the risks involved in gambling, especially amongst under 18s.
“The lottery has a longstanding commitment to promoting responsible play and discouraging underage gambling of any kind,” Jerry Guarino, Deputy Executive Director, commented.
“We have an active partnership with the Council and support their efforts to prevent underage gambling.”
Some 7,000 retailers across New Jersey are distributing the Not 18 Yet? No Bet brochures, which provides concerned individuals with contact information on how to obtain advice and assistance.
The brochures also supply information on major types of teen betting and ways to recognise signs of a gambling problem in minors.
Additionally, the lottery’s website is continually flashing the 1-800-GAMBLER Helpline number.
Neva Pryor, Executive Director of the CCGNJ, added: “The council is expanding its community and school-based outreach programs. One of our focuses is preventing the onset of gambling addiction among adolescents and young adults, so the New Jersey Lottery’s message and support is particularly important.
“The lottery continues to be a great partner in promoting the importance of responsible gambling and in publicizing the Council’s helpline number. If a parent thinks their young child or teenager might have a gambling problem, they can call 1-800-GAMBLER. We offer support, treatment and hope.”