NY’s Responsible Play Partnership Fosters Statewide Collaborative Efforts for Problem Gambling Awareness Month
The national theme of this year’s Problem Gambling Awareness Month, “Seeking Understanding,” was exemplified during March through the collaborative efforts of New York State’s Responsible Play Partnership (RPP), licensed gaming operators, and regional Problem Gambling Resource Centers (PGRC) across the state.
The RPP – the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), the New York State Gaming Commission (Commission), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) – was formed to bring all stakeholders together to address problem gambling, including bridging the gap between gaming facility operators and problem gambling treatment providers. The RPP works to ensure that all gaming entities in the state comply with all rules and regulations and provide access to help for individuals who need it. The RPP continues to collaborate to advance New York’s ongoing commitment to prevent and treat problem gambling.
In line with the 2025 theme, the RPP has encouraged everyone to come together to “Seek Understanding“ to reduce gambling harms. Specifically, during March 2025:
- More than two dozen high-level gaming employees from facilities across the state directly participated in efforts with the NYCPG
- Thirteen separate meetings were held between various RPP members, providers, and gaming operators to discuss future collaborative efforts
- Three full-staff training programs were conducted, with six more planned for the coming months
- Nine on-site events were held where information was provided directly to gaming patrons
- Ongoing discussions with gaming staff were held regarding resources for individuals who are struggling or seeking to voluntarily self-exclude (VSE)
- Ten gaming facilities participated in OASAS’ Take a Pause Campaign and made available for patrons the Gambling Behavior Survey self-assessment tool
- OASAS promoted free financial counseling via GamFin financial counseling services via the Addiction: The Next Step Podcast
- NYCPG continues to offer its free VSE Support Program to help those who wish to self-exclude navigate the process, available via
VSESupport@nycpg.org or 518-903-0217.
The RPP and gaming operators will continue to collaborate in 2025, including providing casino management training and staff listening sessions, and incorporating additional problem gambling awareness messaging on operators’ websites and social media channels.
OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “New York State is committed to a robust continuum of care for problem gambling, and we are accelerating our efforts to reach and support those in need. While Problem Gambling Awareness Month has amplified our educational outreach and facilitated connections to resources, the urgency of this issue demands year-round dedication. We must build upon our progress, expanding and enhancing services to ensure every New Yorker can find the help they need.”
Commission Executive Director Robert Williams said, “We are honored to partner with OASAS and the Council on Problem Gambling each year to recognize Problem Gambling Awareness Month. This month saw meaningful outreach to gaming operators, connections with service providers, and responsible gaming education for players. However, these are full-time initiatives, and the Commission is committed to working with the RPP and our operators to provide a safe gaming environment all year long.”
NYCPG Executive Director Jim Maney shared, “This is the first year in the 29 years I’ve been working in problem gambling that I’ve seen the industry come together for a coordinated statewide effort to raise awareness of problem gambling. These efforts to assist patrons in maintaining player health and wellness are essential and we’re looking forward to more coordinated and collaborative efforts this year.”
Those seeking help can visit NYProblemGamblingHelp.org or call New York State’s confidential HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY at 467369.r
