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The responsible gambling push continues as a New Jersey bill would make it easier for problem gamblers to self-exclude across multiple states.
Senate Bill 2055 was reported favorably from the Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism, and Historic Preservation Committee. It advanced to second reading this week. The legislation would authorize the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) to participate in a national or multi-state self-exclusion program for gambling activities.
If ultimately enacted, the measure could significantly expand the reach of New Jersey’s existing self-exclusion system. It would allow gamblers to block themselves from wagering in multiple jurisdictions through a single application.
Bill would streamline self-exclusion across state lines
Under current New Jersey law, individuals can voluntarily place themselves on the state’s retail and online gambling self-exclusion lists. However, those exclusions only apply within New Jersey. Someone who wants to ban themselves from gambling in several states must currently complete separate self-exclusion processes in each jurisdiction.
S2055 would allow the DGE to join national or multi-state self-exclusion programs that combine multiple state lists into a single system. A gambler could choose the states where they want their exclusion to apply and submit one form instead of navigating several different programs.
The legislation would also authorize New Jersey to enter agreements with other states for mutual enforcement of self-exclusion lists. The DGE would be responsible for developing the rules, procedures, and forms needed to implement those agreements.
Importantly, the bill includes privacy protections. The DGE would be prohibited from sharing an individual’s information with any jurisdiction that the person did not specifically authorize.
Bipartisan support behind proposal
The measure is sponsored by Sen. Vince Polistina, a Republican whose district includes Atlantic City. Democratic Sens. John McKeon and Vin Gopal are co-sponsors.
The legislation is not entirely new. It carries over a proposal introduced during the previous legislative session that did not reach the governor’s desk.
A national self-exclusion framework has gained traction in recent years with gambling expanding across the country. Responsible gambling advocates have argued that state-by-state exclusion systems are less effective for people who live near state borders or travel frequently.
Part of broader responsible gambling push in 2026
S2055 is the latest in a growing list of responsible gambling measures introduced by New Jersey lawmakers this year.
Legislators have already advanced or proposed bills that would require operators to make responsible gambling tools more prominent, establish new standards for advertising and promotional offers, expand consumer protections for online bettors, and strengthen sports wagering integrity safeguards.
Several proposals would also increase responsible gambling messaging. In addition, operators would provide bettors with easier access to tools such as deposit limits, time limits, and self-exclusion options.
S2055 continues that trend by focusing on one of the most established harm-reduction tools available to problem gamblers.
If approved by the full Legislature, New Jersey would join a growing effort to create a more seamless self-exclusion system that follows players beyond state lines.
