This summer, a groundbreaking new program will be launching across the nation, offering individuals struggling with gambling addiction a new tool to help them regain control of their lives. The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program will allow individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from all casinos and online gambling sites for a specified period of time, in order to break the cycle of addiction and begin the path to recovery.
The program, which is set to debut in July, will be the first of its kind in the country, offering a nationwide database that will allow participants to self-exclude from all gambling venues in their state, in addition to online gambling sites. This initiative is part of a larger effort to address the rising rates of problem gambling in the United States, which has become a growing concern for public health officials and addiction specialists.
Individuals who choose to participate in the program will be able to sign up online or in person at participating gambling establishments, and will be required to provide personal information, such as their name, address, and contact information. They will also be required to choose a length of time for their self-exclusion, which can range from six months to five years.
Once enrolled in the program, participants will be unable to access any gambling venues or websites that are part of the program’s database. If they attempt to enter a casino or online gambling site, they will be identified as a self-excluded individual and asked to leave or have their account deactivated. Participants will also be provided with resources and support to help them address their gambling addiction and begin their journey to recovery.
The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program has received widespread support from both the gambling industry and addiction specialists, who see it as an important step towards addressing the growing problem of problem gambling in the country. According to recent studies, an estimated 2% of adults in the United States are affected by problem gambling, with rates even higher among certain demographic groups.
“We are thrilled to be launching this program, as we believe it will be a game-changer in the fight against problem gambling,” said Sarah Johnson, a spokesperson for the National Council on Problem Gambling. “By providing individuals with the option to self-exclude from all gambling venues and websites, we are giving them a powerful tool to help them regain control of their lives and begin the journey to recovery.”
The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program will officially launch on July 1st, with enrollment open to all individuals who are 18 years of age or older. For more information on how to participate in the program, individuals can visit the program’s website or contact their state’s gambling regulatory agency.
