Gaming operators admit 1-800-GAMBLER changeover was tough to handle

Last year gamblers and operators alike experienced a significant change in how problem gambling support is provided across the U.S., as the National Council on Problem Gambling’s lost control ofthe 1-800-GAMBLER number.

Amid a dispute between the licensee NCPG and the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), which has owned 1-800-GAMBLER since the 1980s, a New Jersey judge ruled in September that the NCPG must cease using the number or mark as of Sept. 29, leaving it in the exclusive control of the CCGNJ.

How did the issue affect major gaming operators? The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) heard from several about the issue at a recent meeting.

Who you gonna call?

After the court verdict, the NCPG returned to using its old national problem gambling helpline number, 1-800-522-4700. It means that there are now two national hotlines for gambling support, each billed by its owner as thesole national problem gambling helpline.

That, BetMGM Director of Responsible Gami..