Three US states have alternative court systems for people convicted of financial crimes who also suffer from gambling-related behavioral pathologies. The idea is starting to catch on as two more could soon join them.

Legislators in both New Jersey and Washington have submitted bills that would create similar justice system paths in those states for people who struggle with problem gambling. The notion behind the idea is universal regardless of the jurisdiction; helping people who need problem gambling treatment obtain that assistance while also saving the resources of the traditional justice system for other matters.

In Ohio, Nevada, and New York, some people convicted of certain financial crimes related to potential issues with problem gambling go from the traditional justice system to gambling treatment diversion courts.