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1,000th Gambler Asks for Self-Ban from A.C. Casinos

There is definitely something to be said for self-awareness. Many problem gamblers, like those addicted to drugs or alcohol, deny that they have an issue with their addiction. Maybe they truly believe that they are fine, or they are simply unwilling to take the difficult and painful steps necessary to curb an addiction. On the other hand, some people are aware that they are in the throes of a problem that they just can’t control. In Atlantic City, as in elsewhere, the government maintains a list of gamblers who have voluntary asked casinos to ban them for their own good. Recently, New Jersey added a thousandth name to the list of self-banners from Atlantic City slot machines and casinos.

Gamblers who feel that they are just a little (or a lot) too attached to the clang and flash of slot machines and other forms of casino gambling can sign up for a one year, five year, or lifetime ban from the eleven casinos of Atlantic City. Casinos are supposed to keep these folks out, as well as stop advertising to or otherwise beckoning them to come visit. Should these players be caught by the state gambling at a casino, the state is authorized to seize their winnings, as well as their wagers from the gambling establishment.

The size of the list has doubled in barely three years, and currently has more than eight hundred fifty names on it. Of the thousand that have signed up, some who elected less than a lifetime ban have had their restrictions removed by the passage of time.

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