Hamilton, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/03/2018 -- The CCGNJ wants New Jersey residents to be aware of the rise in popularity of competitive video gaming, otherwise known as eSports. It is proving to be a very profitable market for both gamers and investors alike. The eSports and competitive gaming industry is currently valued at approximately $900 million and is showing no signs of slowing down; And with the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) no longer in effect, businesses, fans, game publishers, and individuals across the nation are ready to take full advantage of everything eSports has to offer — including gambling.
Whether it's gambling at the casino, making bets at the horse track or joining a friend's fantasy football league, every type of gambling comes with the potential to get out of hand, and eSports gambling in Monmouth County is no exception. However, with eSports betting currently illegal in the state of New Jersey, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is particularly concerned about the exciting and lucrative allure it has, especially to the younger demographic.
Neva Pryor, the Council's Executive Director, weighs in stating, "Right now, the eSports betting market lacks any form of a regulatory body, which makes it easy for any entity or individual to participate. Although the eSports Integrity Coalition (ESIC) has been tasked with keeping an eye on this growing eSports industry, the nation as a whole runs the risk of more underage betting and a possible increase of disordered gambling problems."
While the future of eSports and gambling in the Meadowlands and the rest of New Jersey is still unclear, the CCCNJ does not foresee it going away anytime soon, legal or not.
The CCGNJ is committed to helping disordered gamblers on their journey to recovery. To learn more, please visit their website today at https://800gambler.org/. Those in need of immediate assistance are encouraged to call their 100% free and confidential hotline — 1-800-GAMBLER.
About The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
The Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey is a non-profit, private organization dedicated to helping individuals seek help for their disordered gambling problem, and for concerned friends and loved ones to confidentially express their concerns about someone close to them. Their 24/7 hotline is 800-GAMBLER. The Council also works to train professionals in the fields of gambling addiction and recovery.