Six of the biggest online gaming companies in the US have collaborated on a new responsible gambling program.
In particular, Bally’s, BetMGM, DraftKings, Entain, FanDuel, and MGM Resorts, all authorized gambling organizations in Illinois, have made a 12-point pledge. This pledge demonstrates their dedication to promoting responsible online gaming practices.
Additionally, the gambling companies are endorsing the principles as a standard for the industry.
The announcement aligns with the American Gaming Association’s designation of September as Responsible Gaming Education Month.
Martin Lycka, Entain’s senior vice-president for American regulatory affairs and responsible gambling, expressed his delight in the commitment of other leading operators to responsible gaming in the rapidly growing US markets. He emphasized the importance of responsibility in their business and noted that this marks an important milestone. Lycka also mentioned that this initiative is a first for the market and a significant step towards addressing problem gaming consistently.
We urge industry and state regulators to collaborate with us in promoting these principles for the benefit of our patrons.
Participating only in legal, regulated responsible markets at the core
The group stated in a press release that the 12 principles are based on four fundamental attributes.
- Engaging exclusively in regulated markets that offer safeguards for consumers.
- Working towards promoting a culture of responsible gaming within their individual companies.
- Online gaming should be a source of enjoyment and entertainment, regardless of the form it takes.
- Although most people can responsibly engage in online gaming, some individuals may require extra tools and support to help manage their gaming habits.
Also, the principles include:
- A dedication to actively prevent minors and marginalized individuals from engaging in any type of gaming.
- The implementation and successful promotion of a single national helpline for responsible gaming, available toll-free.
- Advertising that is socially responsible and refrains from using any imagery that could potentially appeal to minors in its promotional material.
- A collaborative approach to addressing gaming-related issues.
- We are dedicated to collaborating with policymakers, researchers, problem gambling treatment organizations, advocacy groups, partners, and customers to support responsible gaming practices and combat problem gambling.
- Ensuring employees are trained and monitoring operators’ responsible gaming programs and initiatives to ensure they comply with relevant standards.
What the operators are saying about the partnership
Chrissy Thurmond, the senior director of responsible gaming at DraftKings, stated that…
In order to promote safer play, it is crucial to provide operators with a framework to help guide them in responsible gaming.
Additionally, Robeson Reeves, the president of interactive at Bally’s Corporation, emphasized the company’s dedication to the 12-point pledge. He stressed that it is both Bally’s and the industry’s responsibility to prevent underage gaming and offer education and safeguards.
Furthermore, Joshua Jessen, the chief legal officer of BetMGM, stated:
Establishing a uniform set of responsible gaming measures enhances our dedication to our customers, employees, and the communities we serve.
Additionally, Adam Warrington, the vice president of responsible gaming at FanDuel, stated, “Together, we are fortunate to have the chance to establish the benchmark for responsible operation by taking the lead and empowering our customers to responsibly enjoy our products.”
Stephen Martino, the senior vice president and chief compliance officer at MGM Resorts, stated:
Collaborating as an industry with a cohesive strategy and set of standards prioritizes the well-being of our guests, customers, and their families. This approach benefits our customers, our industry, and our businesses, making it the most appropriate course of action.
