New Jersey Gambling Council Rejects Arbitration in Hotline Dispute

Earlier this year, the hotline that has long functioned as the primary problem gambling number in the US became embroiled in a licensing disputeImage Source: Shutterstock.com

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ)has refused to participate in arbitration with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG),intensifying a months-long dispute over the future of the national 1-800-GAMBLER helpline.

Court Steps In to Keep 1-800-GAMBLER Running Amid Licensing Dispute

The hotline, which has served as the main problem gambling number in the United States for decades, became the subject of a licensing conflictearlier this year. For the past three years, NCPGoperated the service under a deal that required an annual $150,000 feepaid to the New Jersey-based council, which owns the number. That agreement expired in May and has not been renewed.

While the original contract included a clause for mediation and arbitration in the event of disagreements, CCGNJmaintains that these provisions are no longer binding because the agreement has lapsed. NCPG, however, contends that the clause still applies and filed a request with the American Arbitration Associationto settle the matter. The New Jersey councildismissed the filing, arguing that the request was invalid.

The disputehas already reached the courts. In July, a judge in Mercer Countygranted NCPGa temporary restraining order to keep the hotline operational until late August, preventing a potential shutdown. A further hearing is scheduled for early September.

Dispute Over Control of 1-800-GAMBLER Raises Concerns Among Industry Groups

NCPG officialsarguethat their stewardship has expanded the helpline into a reliable, nationwide resource. They note that calls are routed to local service providers, with backup centers and translation support, ensuring accessibility. Board president Derek Longmeierhas said the group sees maintaining a consistent national standard as essential to protecting vulnerable individuals and families. CCGNJ disagrees, insisting it can manage the line without outside involvement. 

Industry sngakeholdershave expressed alarm at the standoff. Groups such as the American Gaming Associationand the Responsible Online Gaming Associationhave cautioned that any interruption or weakening of the hotline’s operations could undermine years of public awareness campaigns and risk confusing people who need immediate support.

At present, both organizations continue to emphasize that the helpline will remain accessible to callers. However, unless a compromise is reached, the legal battle could reshape who controls one of the country’s most recognizable lifelines for gambling-related harm.