MGM Resorts and BetMGM Expand Responsible Gaming Initiatives During NFL Season
MGM Resorts and BetMGM have renewed their commitment to promoting responsible gaming by partnering with the American Gaming Association (AGA) for Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM 2024) in September. This marks the second consecutive year that the companies will bring their responsible gaming campaign directly to fans at National Football League (NFL) stadiums, with a heightened focus on GameSense, a program designed to encourage positive and informed gambling behaviors.
Increased Visibility for GameSense
GameSense, a program developed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation and licensed to MGM Resorts in 2017, will receive greater exposure this year.
Its messaging will be prominently displayed in key locations at several NFL stadiums, including Acrisure Stadium, Allegiant Stadium, Empower Field at Mile High, Ford Field, GHEA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, M&T Bank Stadium, MetLife Stadium, Nissan Stadium, and State Farm Stadium..
“We’re excited to bring responsible gaming initiatives directly to fans in these NFL venues again this season,” said Rhea Loney, Chief Compliance Officer at BetMGM. “We are setting a new standard for safety and awareness in the industry. At BetMGM, we believe that protecting our players and promoting responsible play is essential to the future of sports betting.”
Supporting Research and Employee Training
Coinciding with RGEM 2024, MGM Resorts has announced a $440,000 contribution to responsible gaming research. This funding, directed to the International Center for Responsible Gaming and the Kindbridge Research Institute, will support studies that address gaps in understanding the impact of gambling on under-researched populations, including women military veterans.
Stephen Martino, SVP and Chief Compliance Officer at MGM Resorts, emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, “The importance of responsible gaming research funding cannot be overstated. As a gaming industry leader, it’s imperative that our company supports efforts to better understand the diverse impact gambling has on various populations, including those that may be at greater risk of developing problematic behaviors.”
In addition to supporting research, MGM Resorts and BetMGM are investing in extensive training for their employees. MGM Resorts has recently certified over 500 customer-facing employees as GameSense Advisors, equipping them with the tools to educate customers about responsible gambling. BetMGM is also enhancing its training programs, particularly for its VIP staff, and continues to advance responsible gaming practices through its partnership with EPIC Global Solutions.
Throughout September, MGM Resorts will enhance the visibility of GameSense messaging across its properties, including new displays on table games and continued messaging on slot machines. BetMGM will also introduce improved responsible gaming tools on its platform, designed to help players manage their budgets and promote a responsible entertainment experience. This effort is part of a broader strategy to embed responsible gaming practices within all aspects of the customer experience.
Joe Maloney, SVP of Strategic Communications at the American Gaming Association, praised the collaborative efforts, stating, “Collaboration is integral to strengthening our collective responsibility efforts. Both in their work with the AGA and throughout the legal, regulated gaming industry, MGM Resorts and BetMGM continue to be leaders in forming innovative partnerships that are advancing responsible gaming in meaningful ways.”
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