The Colorado Division of Gaming (DOG) has introduced a comprehensive statewide self-exclusion program aimed at promoting responsible gaming. Launched during Responsible Gaming Education Month, this initiative allows players to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities, including casino gaming and sports wagering, both at retail establishments and online sportsbooks. Participants can opt for exclusion periods of one, three, or five years. This development follows the management of enrollments on the self-exclusion list by the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado (PGCC). In addition, we’ll explore recent trends in Colorado’s sports betting industry.
The Launch of Colorado’s Statewide Self-Exclusion Program:
The Colorado Division of Gaming (DOG) has rolled out a statewide self-exclusion program.
Players can voluntarily exclude themselves from all forms of gambling, including casinos and sports wagering.
Exclusion periods of one, three, or five years are available.
Responsible Gaming Education Month:
The launch of this program is particularly significant as it aligns with Responsible Gaming Education Month.
Responsible gaming initiatives aim to raise awareness about the potential risks of gambling and provide tools for individuals to manage their gambling behavior.
Management by Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado (PGCC):
Prior to the official launch, the PGCC was responsible for managing enrollments on the self-exclusion list.
Collaboration between state agencies and advocacy groups highlights the commitment to responsible gaming.
Colorado’s Sports Betting Landscape:
Colorado’s sports betting handle for July reached $281.1 million, marking an 8.9% year-on-year increase.
However, there was a 9.5% drop from the previous month, with the handle falling below $300 million for the first time since August 2022.
Despite the decline in handle, gross gaming revenue in July was $25 million, up by 20.2% from the same month in the previous year and a significant 171.7% increase from June 2023.
Online operators reported a gross gaming revenue of $24.8 million, with players winning $256.1 million.
The Importance of Responsible Gaming Initiatives:
The fluctuations in sports betting handle highlight the need for responsible gaming measures to protect players from potential harm.
While revenue numbers may fluctuate, the focus on responsible gaming remains a priority for the Colorado gaming industry.
DOG’s Commitment to Responsible Gaming:
Colorado Division of Gaming director Christopher Schroder emphasized the division’s dedication to promoting responsible gaming.
The launch of the self-exclusion program represents a significant step in fulfilling this commitment.
Colorado’s launch of a statewide self-exclusion program during Responsible Gaming Education Month underscores the state’s commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices. This initiative, which allows players to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities, is a collaborative effort between state agencies and advocacy groups. It comes at a time when the sports betting industry in Colorado is experiencing fluctuations in handle, highlighting the importance of responsible gaming measures. The Colorado Division of Gaming’s proactive approach in this regard sets a positive example for the broader gaming industry.