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The National Council on Problem Gambling recently lost access to the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline to the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey earlier this week.
However, the NCPG remains steadfast in providing the best possible support for problem gamblers across the country. Despite more litigation surrounding the national hotline, the NCPG is giving those in need another option to aid in responsible gambling efforts.
NCPG offers another solution
The NCPG and CCGNJ had been working together since 2022, until a contract dispute sent both parties to a New Jersey court concerning the operation of 1-800-GAMBLER. It resulted in the CCGNJ winning the court case and assuming full control of the resource earlier this week.
The NCPG expressed disappointment over losing the court battle. In a statement on its website, the organization explained how it still intends to help problem gamblers.
“NCPG remains committed to working with all stakeholders to minimize disruptions and ensure continued support for individuals and families in need.
“Importantly, NCPG will operate the National Problem Gambling Helpline using the former number, 1-800-522-4700, until a permanent solution can be determined.”
The NCPG remains involved in helping those in need. However, it might not be the way it envisioned.
NCPG to exhaust legal options
A New Jersey Superior Court ruled in favor of the CCGNJ last month because the “NCPG failed to present sufficient legal argument or evidence to support its claim to continue using the helpline under its control.”
The NCPG said that it was “dismayed” over the ruling, which would “fundamentally hinder nationwide access to timely, confidential, and high-quality care for those in need of problem gambling support by taking critical services offline.”
The CCGNJ vowed, however, that services would not be compromised despite the shift in authority.
The NCPG is still pursuing control of the national gambling helpline and plans to exhaust its legal options.
“NCPG will aggressively pursue all appellate options concerning today’s decision and is in the process of filing an emergency motion asking the New Jersey Appellate Division to enter a stay to maintain the status quo for helpline operations while the appeal is considered.”
