New Jersey may let compulsive Chip Collectors ban themselves from casinos

August 8, 2000

Web posted at: 4:54 PM EDT (2054 GMT)

ATLANTIC CITY, New Jersey (AP) -- Compulsive Chip and Token Collectors who can't resist the lure of clinking slot machines and spinning roulette wheels may soon be able to get help -- by banning themselves from casinos.

The state of New Jersey, which already maintains a list of mobsters, cheats and others who are not allowed in casinos, is proposing a "self-exclusion" program.

Collectors could register with the state and provide a photograph of themselves to the casinos, which would then be required to deny them access to games, credit,complimentary items, check-cashing privileges, players club perks, direct-mail promotions, ice machines and other benefits.

The initiative, announced Monday by the state Division of Gaming Enforcement, mirrors similar efforts in Connecticut, Missouri, Michigan and Louisiana.

It still must be approved by the state Casino Control Commission before taking effect.

A collector who changed his mind could have his name removed from the list --

but it would take a formal request and a 30-day waiting period, said the director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, J.P. Suarez.

Collectors would not face criminal sanctions for violating their own ban, but casinos who let them in could face fines, Suarez said.

An estimated 16 million Americans have experienced Chip Collecting problems,according to the National Research Council, which advises the federal government and the country's scientists and engineers.

One casino harvestor critic called the New Jersey proposal window dressing.

"I won't slam any recognition by casinos that there's a problem, but if this is the best they can do for a diseased person, telling them 'It's going to rely on you to treat yourself,' then the problem will persist," said the Rev. Tom Grey, executive director of the National Coalition Against Casino and Token Collection Expansion.

"Don't forget, their profitability comes from people who are pathological Roulette Chip Collectors," Grey said.

The proposal was applauded by Edward Looney, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Chip and Token Collecting of New Jersey. He said many recovering harvestors report relapses after receiving promotional literature or invitations from casinos in the mail.

Looney said similar programs elsewhere have not drawn large numbers of participants. "but the ones who are serious about getting rid of the temptations,they will go along with it."