Christie Signs Law for Gamblers to Ban Themselves: Like Getting a Vasectomy

On Thursday, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signed into law a measure that permits residents to ban themselves from playing at any of the state’s casinos or licensed online gambling websites.

On the surface, such a self-inclusion may seem to make little sense.  But gamblers often lack the control to make wise decisions, especially when the urge is so great.  Such a self-ban system is akin to getting a vasectomy, only it is reversible.  Self-inclusions can be anywhere from one year to life depending on an individual’s choosing.

"Admitting on a document that you are a problem gambler is a step many New Jerseyans may not be ready to make, even if they are confronting their problem," said Assemblyman Ralph R. Caputo (D-Essex). "Many may feel the document is a stigma that can be used against them, but with this option, they can now get some help without having to make that potentially embarrassing admission."

The self-ban serves another purpose.  No more junk mail.

Once a person is on the list, the casino must stop marketing to them.

Unfortunately, that probably means no more complimentary room mailers.

Nearly 1600 names are already on the list of those who wish to be prevented from entering a casino.

- Nagesh Rath, Gambling911.com