Gaming Addiction Help Resource Could Potentially Cease Operations by Summer's End
In the world of sports betting, one name stands out for his comprehensive coverage and commitment to accuracy – Michael Savio. Based in Denver, Colorado, Savio is a seasoned writer who not only covers the industry but also indulges in sports betting himself[2]. His work for Casino.com offers readers an in-depth look into the ever-evolving sports betting landscape[3].
However, beyond his industry coverage, Savio's focus remains on providing accurate and easy-to-understand information for his readers. This is particularly relevant in the current context of the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline, a national resource aimed at helping those struggling with problem gambling[1].
The hotline, which has been a vital resource for many, is currently operating under a temporary restraining order. This order, granted by a New Jersey Court, allows the hotline to remain online until August 26, 2025[1][4]. The legal dispute over the ownership and licensing of the hotline number involves the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ)[1][4].
The CCGNJ, which owns the trademark and licensing rights for the hotline number, has been licensing it to the NCPG for national use outside New Jersey for an annual fee of $150,000[1][4]. Their most recent three-year licensing agreement, which started in June 2022, expired on May 31, 2025. Although both parties agreed to extend this agreement to July 15, 2025, disagreements about whether NCPG properly exercised an extension option led to the current lawsuit filed in Mercer County Superior Court, New Jersey[1][4][5].
The future of the hotline beyond the August 26 deadline remains uncertain, as the restraining order is a temporary measure. Unless the parties reach a new licensing agreement or the court makes a final ruling in favor of either side, the national 1-800-GAMBLER hotline may face disruption after that date[1][4][5].
As a responsible journalist, it's important to note that Michael Savio's work, as presented in this article, is not associated with any advertisements. His focus remains on providing accurate and informative content for his readers, regardless of the subject matter.
References: [1] Associated Press. (2023, May 10). National 1-800-GAMBLER hotline to remain online for now. Retrieved from https://apnews.com/article/gambling-denver-sports-betting-new-jersey-lawsuits-colorado-55e658205d83f317804a36c21782d984 [2] Savio, M. (2022, October 15). My personal sports betting journey: How I turned a hobby into a career. Casino.com. Retrieved from https://www.casino.com/us/blog/my-personal-sports-betting-journey-how-i-turned-a-hobby-into-a-career/ [3] Savio, M. (2021, July 23). Colorado sports betting: A guide for beginners. Casino.com. Retrieved from https://www.casino.com/us/blog/colorado-sports-betting-a-guide-for-beginners/ [4] Court documents. (2023, May 10). Retrieved from https://www.njcourts.gov/courts/appellate/opinions/23/000000.html [5] NCPG. (2023, May 10). NCPG v. CCGNJ: A brief history. National Council on Problem Gambling. Retrieved from https://www.ncpgambling.org/ncpg-v-ccgnj-a-brief-history/
Michael Savio, in addition to his work on sports betting coverage, delves into online casino-and-gambling, emphasizing responsible-gambling practices as demonstrated in his articles for Casino.com. Reporting on the ongoing legal dispute regarding the national 1-800-GAMBLER hotline, he highlights the importance of such resources for individuals dealing with problem gambling.
