In 2006, Pennsylvania introduced the Casino Self-Exclusion Program, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at helping individuals struggling with gambling addiction. As of June 5, 2023, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) celebrated a significant milestone by receiving its 20,000th voluntary request for self-exclusion. This program offers participants the option to ban themselves from gambling for varying durations, and the impact has been profound.
Program Overview
The Pennsylvania Casino Self-Exclusion Program, established in 2006, empowers individuals to take control of their gambling habits. Participants can opt for self-exclusion periods of one year, five years, or a lifetime. During their inclusion, gaming facilities in Pennsylvania are legally obligated to deny wagers, check cashing, club memberships, and complementary services to these individuals. Furthermore, trespassing in a casino can result in criminal charges, and any gambling winnings can be confiscated.
Participation Statistics
The 20,000th voluntary request represents a significant milestone for the PGCB. Let’s break down the statistics and gain insights into the individuals who have sought help through this program:
2.1. Demographics:
Out of the 20,000 participants, 12,811 are men, and 7,189 are women.
The age range of participants is remarkable, spanning from 21 to 102 years.
4,335 individuals, or 21% of the total, have chosen a lifetime ban.
A notable 1,026 people opted to reenroll after initially removing their names from the list, with 307 of them selecting a lifetime ban upon re-enrollment.
2.2. Multiple Gambling Verticals:
Participants in the Casino Self-Exclusion Program are not limited to land-based casinos. Many engage in various forms of regulated gambling, including slot machines, table games, online casino gaming, sports wagering, video gaming terminals (VGTs) at truck stops, and fantasy sports.
Impact and Success
Elizabeth Lanza, director of the Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling (OCPG), highlights the program’s effectiveness as a tool for individuals to regain control over their lives. It also serves as a gateway to other recovery resources for those in need.
3.1. A Proven Solution:
The Casino Self-Exclusion Program is just one facet of the agency’s comprehensive approach to tackling gambling addiction.
Lanza emphasizes that this initiative, along with the PGCB’s other self-exclusion programs, has proven to be effective in helping individuals address their gambling problems.
3.2. Encouraging Responsible Gambling:
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board actively promotes responsible gambling.
Elizabeth Lanza encourages anyone who believes they might have a gambling problem to seek treatment and consider participating in the voluntary Self-Exclusion Programs.
Expanding the Reach
In addition to the Casino Self-Exclusion Program, Pennsylvania has implemented self-exclusion initiatives for various gambling verticals. The numbers indicate a growing awareness of the need for responsible gaming across the state:
4.1. Online Casino (igaming):
3,778 individuals have taken advantage of the self-exclusion program for online casino gaming.
4.2. Video Gaming Terminals (VGTs):
1,467 participants have chosen to exclude themselves from VGTs at truck stops.
4.3. Fantasy Sports:
797 individuals have opted for the self-exclusion program tailored to fantasy sports.
Pennsylvania’s self-exclusion programs have become a beacon of hope for those grappling with gambling addiction. With 20,000 voluntary requests, it’s clear that this initiative is making a significant impact. The diverse demographics and choices made by participants reflect the need for tailored solutions in addressing gambling problems. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, in collaboration with the Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling, continues to lead the way in promoting responsible gambling and offering vital support to those in need.