NVSEP expands free self-exclusion program to California to aid problem gamblers

The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NVSEP) is expanding its free self-exclusion support to California starting this August. Following launches in Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, and Tennessee, Californians will now have access to "a simple, no-cost way to proactively address their gambling habits through NVSEP."

NVSEP is working closely with the California Council on Problem Gambling to ensure that the program fills a great need for Californians, it said in a statement.

Robert Jacobson, Executive Director of the California Council on Problem Gambling, said: “California self-exclusion is a critical state program which allows individuals to request that a card room prevent them from gambling at, or in many cases entering, the premises for a designated period. This can be a crucial tool for those battling gambling addiction.

"However, enrolling in the program in person at a card room’s premises can have a powerful triggering effect, potentially leading to a relapse or deterring the individual from self-excluding entirely."

While excluding remotely, i.e., mailing in a form, can be a great alternative, it requires that the enrollment form be notarized to verify the identity of the person submitting the form. 

"For someone suffering from an addiction – especially one which causes severe financial hardships – each added barrier or cost makes it that much more difficult for them to take that first step on the road to recovery,” Jacobson added.

"NVSEP’s offer of free notarization services for those enrolling in California’s self-exclusion program removes a significant barrier, potentially having a tremendously positive impact on countless Californians dealing with gambling addiction by making one of our most vital prevention and recovery tools more accessible."

Jonathan Aiwazian, CEO of idPair, said: “NVSEP is singularly focused on expanding free and simple access to voluntary self-exclusion to those who need it. This announcement has the potential to help many of the tens of millions of people who either call California home or make it a travel destination and need a free and effective way to protect themselves."

Importantly, many Tribal casinos in the state have their own respective self-exclusion programs which are separate from the state’s program, and this announcement pertains only to California’s state-run program, which includes 60+ card rooms.

This announcement does not imply an official relationship between idPair and the state of California or its card rooms, and California reserves the right to decide if they may formally join NVSEP in an integrated manner, the statement said.