New York Recognizes September as Responsible Gaming Education Mon...

ALBANY, NY – New York State is marking September 2026 as Responsible Gaming Education Month, joining a national initiative established by the American Gaming Association to promote gaming literacy, elevate employee training, and advance the understanding of responsible gambling. 

The state’s Responsible Play Partnership (RPP) – consisting of the New York State Gaming Commission (Commission), the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG) – is highlighting its ongoing collaboration with licensed gaming operators to ensure they have the resources and tools to maintain a safe and responsible gaming environment, including digital platforms. The RPP also works to educate patrons about the warning signs of gambling harms and ensure prompt access to services for those who need help. 

In recognition of Responsible Gaming Education Month, Thursday, September 3, has been designated as Gambling Harms Awareness Day at the Great New York State Fair. Representatives will be available in the NY Lottery building to help visitors recognize the signs of gambling-related issues and connect them with helpful resources and support services.

This year, the RPP is placing a special emphasis on OASAS’ ongoing “Take a Pause” campaign. OASAS is rolling out new initiatives and resources to encourage New Yorkers to consider their gambling habits and how they might be affecting their lives, finances, and relationships.

Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer said, “As we mark Responsible Gaming Education Month, our collaboration with OASAS and the New York Council on Problem Gambling remains a cornerstone of our regulatory mission. By ensuring that responsible gambling practices are directly incorporated into all licensed gaming platforms in New York State, we continue to set an example for the rest of the nation. We thank our partners for educating the public about gambling harms and providing critical resources to those in need.”

OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “We have done extensive work across New York State to ensure that anyone who needs help with harms related to gambling is able to find it wherever they live. Together with our partners in the Responsible Play Partnership, we are working on making further expansions to these important services, as well as educating the public on the importance of responsible gambling and how to reduce gambling harms.”

NYCPG Executive Director Michelle Hadden said, "We are pleased to collaborate with our state-level partners at the Commission and OASAS again this RGEM to emphasize the importance of gambling harm awareness. We'll be onsite at Gaming Facilities across New York State this month, training staff and educating patrons on the resources, tools, and supports available. Gambling patrons in New York State deserve this focused attention on both risk and protection, and coordination at all levels of the state is key to ensuring we make an impact, not only this month but throughout the year."  

Promoting Inclusive Language to Reduce Stigma As part of its ongoing efforts, the RPP is actively working to reduce harmful stigmas by encouraging a shift in the language used to discuss problem gambling. The RPP employs the term "gambling harms" rather than problem or compulsive gambling. This person-centered language acknowledges the impact of the symptoms and negative consequences someone may be experiencing either through their own or a loved one’s gambling behaviors. Negative consequences may include financial distress or jeopardizing or losing important relationships, jobs, and/or educational opportunities.

New York State continues to operate the nation’s only blanket voluntary self-exclusion (VSE) program, allowing individuals to bar themselves from all legal gaming opportunities in the state. Of note, individuals who self-exclude may opt in for a direct follow-up call from a HOPEline specialist.

Additionally, the NYCPG’s free Voluntary Self-Exclusion Support Program is available via [email protected] or 518-903-0217 to help individuals navigate the process. The program:

• Explains the self-exclusion process in plain language.
• Assists with completing the necessary VSE forms, including notarization.
• Connects individuals to local community programs addressing the prevention or mitigation of gambling harms.

Those seeking help can call New York State’s free and confidential HOPEline 24/7 at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369).

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