The 1-800-GAMBLER hotline, one of the most recognized tools for responsible gambling support in the United States, is returning to the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) after a significant legal ruling. Superior Court Judge Douglas H. Hurd decided that the operating rights should revert to the New Jersey-based council, ending a licensing arrangement with the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) that began in 2022.
The NCPG had been running the hotline nationally, offering text and chat support across 49 states and territories. During this time, the service saw tremendous growth, recording nearly 19,000 calls in June 2025—quadruple the call volume from mid-2022. However, following the expiration of the licensing agreement in May 2025, the two organizations failed to reach new terms, resulting in a protracted legal battle.
While the NCPG raised concerns in court that a transition back to CCGNJ could disrupt services, the New Jersey council assured that it is technically equipped and experienced to handle the hotline, having managed it since 1983. The council emphasized its commitment to seamless operations, even as nationwide demand for support continues to grow.
The case also attracted attention from industry stakeholders, including the American Gaming Association and the Responsible Online Gaming Association, both of which urged for a resolution that would avoid service interruptions.
Despite the ruling, the NCPG has confirmed plans to appeal, including filing an emergency motion to stay the decision. This means the legal dispute may continue to shape the future of the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline and its role as a national support mechanism.
For now, control rests once again with the CCGNJ, marking a return to its historical roots and raising new questions about the structure of responsible gambling services in the U.S.
