National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program Adds Free Support for California

Following the announcement of free self-exclusion support for Colorado, Iowa, Michigan, and Tennessee, The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NVSEP) announced that, beginning this August, individuals in California will have a simple, no-cost way to take the proactive step of voluntary self-exclusion to address their gambling through NVSEP.

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

Robert Jacobson, Executive Director of the California Council on Problem Gambling, stated: “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.”

“Remotely excluding – i.e., mailing in a form – can be a great alternative; however, 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. 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,” said Mr. Jacobson.

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.”