New Yorkers who think they might have a gambling problem and want to voluntarily prohibit themselves from using retail and online betting platforms should have an easier time doing so, using a new initiative announced Monday by the New York Council on Problem Gambling.

Launched in partnership with the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support (OASAS) and the New York State Gaming Commission, the free Voluntary Self-Exclusion Support Program (VSE) will connect people who seek to stop themselves from gambling with an NYCPG staff member. In turn, the staffer will explain the self-exclusion process, assist the individual with filling out the proper paperwork to be added to the state’s list, and connect them with problem gambling treatment and peer support providers.