This bill amends current law to allow civil liability against casinos and simulcast facilities, as well as their employees, for reckless indifference or intentional misconduct toward individuals who have voluntarily self-excluded from gaming activities. Specifically, it introduces new legal language stating that licensed casinos and simulcast facilities can be held liable for any harm caused by their actions or omissions that demonstrate reckless indifference or intentional misconduct toward self-excluded persons. This change contrasts with existing law, which provides immunity to these entities from civil liability in cases where they fail to enforce self-exclusion measures.

Under the current framework, casinos and simulcast facilities are not liable for any harm resulting from their failure to withhold or restore gaming privileges to self-excluded individuals. The bill aims to enhance protections for those participating in the New Jersey Casino Self-Exclusion Program, which was established to help individuals with gambling problems by allowing them to voluntarily exclude themselves from gaming activities. By permitting civil liability in cases of reckless or intentional misconduct, the bill seeks to ensure that self-excluded individuals are treated with greater responsibility and care by gaming establishments.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 5:12-71.2