Joint commitment
A new responsible gaming initiative is the focus of MGM Resorts and BetMGM in 2021. The companies announced a new commitment to provide tools and education to help players make informed decisions when it comes to betting. Sports betting and iGaming are growing rapidly across the United States, and because of the growth, BetMGM is making a concerted effort to ensure players can enjoy the entertainment options responsibly.
BetMGM has used Twitter to start promoting the effort with weekly safe gambling tips:
The announcement comes as BetMGM and MGM Resorts recently joined the National Council on Problem Gambling. Both are working to promote awareness of responsible betting in conjunction with Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
Education and player outreach
BetMGM plans to promote responsible gaming by offering education opportunities, player outreach, and customer support. Employees of BetMGM and MGM Resorts will participate in an education series each week as part of the initiative.
providing employees with “responsible gambling tools, information, and empowerment they need”
EPIC Risk Management will create the program, helping employees see varying perspectives regarding problem gambling and how operators play a role in prevention. BetMGM Responsible Gambling Program Manager Richard Taylor stated that the company is committed to providing employees with “responsible gambling tools, information, and empowerment they need to ensure the highest level of customer service and care possible.”
EPIC Risk Management has created such programs before, including one for the NFL. In July 2020, the company teamed up with the NFL Players Association Professional Athletes Foundation to launch a new program to educate players on sports integrity as well as responsible gambling.
Additional responsible gambling initiatives
In addition to the employee education program, BetMGM is also promoting the upcoming Eighth Annual Gambling Disorder Screening Day. This event includes an online screening process to help players identify if they show signs of an addiction or problem gambling.
The educational efforts come just before NCAA March Madness, when retail and online sportsbooks will see an increase in player traffic. The college basketball tournament is one of the busiest times of the year for sports betting operators.
FanDuel teams up with AGA
Sports betting operator FanDuel is also focusing on responsible gaming. The company recently partnered with the American Gaming Association (AGA) and its “Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly.” program. This initiative is a public service campaign that promotes responsible sports betting.
FanDuel is the first mobile sportsbook operator to partner with the AGA. Messaging connected to responsible gaming will be provided via team and league assets and the company’s media channels.
The AGA uses the “Have A Game Plan” program to provide detailed information on responsible sports betting in the US. Information is based on the individual state. Details are provided on where to bet legally and how to look for signs of problem gambling.