New Jersey Bills Aim to Regulate Words Used in Gambling Ads

Lawmakers in the Garden State have filed a couple of New Jersey bills targeting gambling ads regulation. Specifically, the bills aim to determine proper locations for gambling ads within the state. A study on the language used on gambling ads and its effects on bettors is also proposed by the bills.

Bill A5562, sponsored by Assemblyman Clinton Calabrese and Assemblywoman Garnet Hall, passed committee on May 8. It now awaits a second reading in the full Assembly chamber for further consideration.

Meanwhile, Senators John McKeon and Renee Burgess introduced companion bill S4366 to a Senate committee on May 12.

Both bills seek to ban gambling ads near schools and colleges to protect young audiences from exposure. They also prohibit marketing in media that mainly targets individuals under 21 years old.

The goal is to discourage illegal or risky gambling and promote responsible gambling tools and awareness. However, the language remains broad and seems focused on physical ads like billboards and signs. 

It does not clearly address digital platforms such as social media or other emerging technologies.

New Jersey Bills to Create an “Approved Words” List

The Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) must conduct a study to evaluate how words in gambling ads influence responsible behavior. The goal is to ensure responsible gambling messages actually affect player decisions and promote safer gaming practices.

DGE is tasked with creating a list of key terms, some of which must appear in all gambling advertisements. This study will explore whether specific phrases help encourage gamblers to act more responsibly.

It will also examine where to best place these phrases in ads to catch the viewer’s attention effectively. Font size and formatting will be tested to see if they impact how people absorb responsible gambling messages.

Moreover, researchers will assess whether certain phrases work better for vulnerable or problem gamblers. They will also determine if repeated use of the same terms weakens their effectiveness over time.

The DGE will publish all findings on its official website for public access and transparency. Based on the results, the DGE may select three to ten phrases for mandatory use in gambling ads.

Finally, the division will enforce rules requiring ads to include at least one of these phrases at effective intervals.

What does this Mean for New Jersey’s Gambling Industry?

The New Jersey bills regulating gambling ad language could bring several positive changes to the online gaming industry. By restricting misleading terms, the bill helps consumers make better-informed choices when using real money online casino platforms.

It also encourages greater transparency across USA online casinos, boosting public trust in the rapidly growing digital gambling market. Clearer language reduces confusion, especially for new users who may not fully understand how online gambling works.

Moreover, the bill supports responsible gambling by eliminating terms that downplay risk or overpromise potential winnings. As a result, players are more likely to engage with real money online casino games in a safer, informed manner.

This legislation also protects vulnerable groups, especially young adults, from being misled by aggressive marketing tactics. In addition, regulating advertising language could prompt other USA online casinos to adopt higher ethical standards.

Over time, this may lead to a more sustainable and accountable online gambling environment nationwide. With this bill, New Jersey positions itself as a leader in promoting fairness in digital gaming.