An Assembly panel has approved legislation to ease the concerns of gamblers, who want to be put on the self-excluded gaming activity list at all New Jersey casinos and racetracks, but not acknowledge being a problem gambler.

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“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 Caputo (D-Belleville), a co-sponsor of the bill. “With this option, they are getting some help without having to make that potentially embarrassing admission.”

The measure would allow a person to get on the exclusion list without admitting they have a gambling problem.

“We typically don’t make those recovering from substance abuse sign documents admitting their problem, so let’s not hold those fighting to recover from gambling addiction to a more difficult standard,” said co-sponsor, Assemblyman John Burzichelli (D-West Deptford). “This can help many people get the help they need without embarrassing them.”

The legislation is also sponsored by Assembly members Troy Singleton (D-Mount Laurel) and Valerie Vainieri Huttle (D-Englewood). The bill cleared the Assembly Tourism and Gaming Committee chaired by Caputo.

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