Arizona Launches “Too Young to Bet” Campaign to Protect Youth

Educating the Gatekeepers

The campaign targets adults rather than the minors themselves. The ADG aims to equip parents, teachers, and coaches with the right tools. These adults serve as the primary defense against early exposure to wagering.

The initiative reinforces the state rule that legal gambling is restricted to those 21 and older.

The program provides free educational materials and curriculum for schools. These resources explain how gambling mechanics hide inside modern digital products.

Officials warn that mobile apps and video games often introduce risk. Features like “loot boxes” and “skins betting” normalize wagering for children. Social media ads for sportsbooks also increase the pressure on young audiences.

“Youth gambling can take many forms, and it is a growing risk that families need to be aware of,” said Jackie Johnson, Director of the ADG.

“This initiative helps the community understand that in Arizona, gambling is for adults 21 and older and how important it is to keep gambling products out of kids’ hands.”

To support these efforts, the state expanded its support network. The ADG promotes a confidential, 24-hour helpline at 1-800-NEXT-STEP. Users can also access support via text or an online chat service.

Cracking Down on Unregulated Markets

This educational push aligns with strict enforcement actions against unlicensed operators. The ADG identifies unregulated sites as a major safety gap.

Platforms like prediction markets and sweepstakes casinos often lack robust age verification systems. This makes them easily accessible to minors.

Arizona regulators recently issued cease-and-desist orders to several offshore and sweepstakes entities. Targets included Bovada, VGW, and High 5.

The state classifies these operations as illegal gambling. The ADG views the removal of these accessible, unregulated platforms as essential for youth protection.

Director Johnson also issued a stern warning to licensed operators regarding prediction markets. The state monitors partnerships carefully.

If an Arizona licensee works with a company selling illegal event contracts in other jurisdictions, they risk losing their state license.

Elise Mikkelsen, Director of the DPG, highlighted the urgency of the situation. “Underage gambling is more common than many families realize,” Mikkelsen stated.

“As prevention increasingly depends on families, schools, and communities working together, this campaign provides practical tools and gives adults the information they need to recognize early signs and keep gambling where it belongs, with adults.”