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The New Jersey Senate voted 38-0 to approve Assembly Bill A1715 last week to bolster gambling addiction awareness and support education on college and university campuses across the state. The bill now heads to the governor’s desk after winning earlier unanimous approval in the Assembly.
Sponsored by Assemblywoman Garnet R. Hall (D-Essex/Union) and co-sponsored by several Democratic legislators, the bill reflects growing concern among lawmakers about advertising by New Jersey sportsbooks and New Jersey online casinos, and student wellbeing on public campuses.
What A1715 would require
Under A1715, public institutions of higher education, which includes state universities, colleges, and community colleges, would be required to take proactive steps to address compulsive gambling risk among students.
The bill mandates the following responsible gambling measures:
- Compulsive Gambling Support: At least once per semester, each campus must invite and facilitate the presence of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey to provide information and resources on compulsive gambling. This includes education on risks, counseling services, and self-exclusion program options.
- Information and Resources: Institutions must make educational materials available that promote responsible gambling behavior and share information on helplines or other support services for students dealing with gambling problems.
The current version of the bill focuses on consistent outreach and education rather than narrowly tying the requirement to specific partnership agreements with gambling operators.
Why lawmakers backed the measure
Advocates argue that as sports wagering and other forms of legalized gambling expand, young adults, particularly college students exposed to heavy sports media and advertising, are at heightened risk of developing unhealthy gambling habits.
Proponents believe that bringing expert resources directly to campuses will help raise awareness and connect students to support services before problems escalate.
Supporters pointed to the bipartisan nature of the bill’s approval – passing both the Assembly and Senate without opposition – as evidence of widespread concern for student health and safety.
The state is also considering a bill that would ban gambling advertising on or near college campuses across the state.
How bill progressed through the Legislature
A1715 was introduced in January 2024, and at first lingered. It then began to move steadily through committees in both houses. It passed the Assembly with a unanimous vote in March 2025 and was reported favorably out of Senate committee earlier this year before the Senate’s final passage this month.
Along the way, the bill received amendments that refined its language and clarified implementation details, especially regarding how often and in what manner campuses must engage with gambling support organizations.
What happens next
With Senate passage secured, A1715 now goes to Gov. Phil Murphy for his signature.
If signed into law, the measure would take effect immediately, requiring New Jersey’s public colleges and universities to begin planning how they will host compulsive gambling awareness events and integrate support resources into campus life.
