In a groundbreaking move, the largest online gaming operators in the US have come together to set a precedent in responsible gaming. Bally’s Corporation, BetMGM, DraftKings, Entain, FanDuel, and MGM Resorts International have collectively made a 12-point pledge, aiming to establish industry-led benchmarks for responsible gaming practices. Rooted in four core attributes, their commitment focuses on legal compliance, fostering a responsible gaming culture, ensuring a fun and entertaining experience, and providing support for players who may require additional assistance.
Legal Compliance and Consumer Protection:
At the heart of the operators’ pledge is a commitment to operate exclusively within legal markets that offer robust consumer protections. By adhering to local regulations and guidelines, they aim to ensure fair play and uphold the integrity of the industry. This approach also includes taking active measures to prevent underage and excluded individuals from participating in any form of gaming, thus promoting a safer and more secure environment for all users.
Instilling a Responsible Gaming Culture:
The operators recognize that promoting responsible gaming requires a comprehensive and culture-wide approach. They pledge to foster a responsible gaming culture throughout their businesses, emphasizing the importance of player well-being, transparency, and ethical conduct. This proactive stance helps to create a positive atmosphere surrounding gaming activities, making responsible behavior an integral part of the gaming experience.
Emphasizing Gaming as Entertainment:
Acknowledging that online gaming should be a source of enjoyment, the operators are committed to ensuring that their platforms offer an entertaining experience for all users. By emphasizing the recreational aspect of gaming, they aim to minimize the risk of excessive or harmful play. This approach helps redefine gaming as a form of leisure and relaxation, thereby encouraging healthier gaming habits.
Supporting Players with Tools and Assistance:
Understanding that some players may require additional support, the operators have pledged to provide tools and resources to assist users in managing their gaming activities responsibly. These responsible gaming tools are designed to be easily understood and accessible, allowing customers to make informed choices about their gaming behavior. By empowering players with self-control options, the operators aim to promote responsible gaming habits.
Ongoing Research and Impact Assessment:
To ensure the effectiveness of their collaborative efforts, the operators commit to conducting ongoing research to track the impact of their responsible gaming initiatives. By staying vigilant and data-driven, they can continually refine and enhance their strategies to address emerging challenges effectively.
Nationwide Toll-Free Responsible Gaming Helpline:
As part of their commitment to promoting responsible gaming, the operators are adopting and promoting a nationwide toll-free responsible gaming helpline. This helpline will offer support and guidance to individuals who may be facing challenges with their gaming behavior, ensuring they have access to professional assistance when needed.
Socially Responsible Advertising:
The operators recognize the significance of responsible advertising and its impact on shaping public perceptions of gaming. As a result, they pledge to avoid using imagery that might entice minors or encourage irresponsible behavior. Responsible advertising is crucial in presenting gaming as a recreational activity for adults while safeguarding young audiences from potential harm.
Shared Responsibility Approach:
Addressing problem gaming requires a collective effort involving various stakeholders. The operators commit to a shared responsibility approach, collaborating with policy makers, academic experts, problem gaming treatment organizations, advocacy groups, partners, and customers to collectively promote responsible gaming and address problem gaming challenges.
Employee Training and Compliance:
As part of their dedication to responsible gaming, the operators will provide comprehensive training for their employees to ensure they are well-equipped to identify and address potential issues related to player well-being. This proactive approach ensures that all team members play a role in upholding the industry’s responsible gaming standards.
The collective pledge made by Bally’s Corporation, BetMGM, DraftKings, Entain, FanDuel, and MGM Resorts International marks a significant milestone in the US gaming industry. By setting a precedent in responsible gaming practices, these operators are taking a proactive stance to promote player well-being, ensure legal compliance, and foster a culture of responsible gaming. Their commitment to ongoing research and collaboration with various stakeholders underscores their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of responsible gaming. As September is designated Responsible Gaming Education Month, this industry-led initiative serves as a shining example of the gaming sector’s commitment to prioritizing player protection and responsible gaming as it continues to grow in the US market.