Wednesday marks the start of Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
BetMGM, Michigan’s online casino leader, is committed to promoting responsible gambling messaging, and will step up its efforts starting on March 1.
Expect to see more RG messaging and advertising from BetMGM going forward.
BetMGM to promote responsible gambling
BetMGM announced a pledge to prominently feature responsible gaming messages in its market and advertising campaigns starting on March 1.
As part of the pledge, RG messaging will be featured on BetMGM’s mobile app as well as BetMGM advertisements. Those ads range from billboard marketing to television, print and radio ads across North America.
“We are committed to leading the industry in promoting responsible gaming, which is why we’re announcing this unprecedented pledge to spotlight responsible gaming messaging in our advertising,” said Adam Greenblatt, BetMGM CEO in a press release. “As the legalized sports betting and online gaming industry continues to expand, it is vital that we not only equip players with tools and resources for how to play in a responsible and safe manner, but that we also make a significant commitment to showcasing responsible gaming in our advertising.”
BetMGM will also be incorporating gaming messages and banners into BetMGM’s digital and social platforms. You will also see RG messaging on signage within physical BetMGM sportsbooks. That includes the BetMGM Sports Lounge at MGM Grand Detroit.
BetMGM responsible gambling messaging created through GameSense
The campaign messaging was developed in partnership with GameSense.
GameSense is an award-winning responsible gaming program. It was developed and licensed to MGM Resorts and BetMGM by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.
“With the continued growth of sports betting and iGaming, it’s imperative that our industry remain committed to supporting the best interests of our guests and customers,” MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle said. “MGM Resorts is the premier leader in gaming entertainment, and GameSense has helped us set the standard for promoting responsible gaming and prioritizing player health. We commend BetMGM for this groundbreaking commitment.”
BetMGM has integrated GameSense into its digital platforms. It provides the following features:
- Tools to set spending limits
- Dispelling common gambling misconceptions
- Explains the basic rules of gambling
- Accessible resources for customers to connect to trained GameSense advisors
Responsible Gambling education coming to Michigan schools?
Earlier this month, Sen. Joseph N. Bellino Jr. (R-Monroe) proposed a bill that would bring RG education to Michigan schools.
Senate Bill 54 would require the state Department of Education to develop a grade-and-age appropriate model program of instruction on gambling addiction. If it passes, education would begin in the fall of 2024. The program would be available to school districts and public-school academies.
“With the popularity of mobile betting apps and online sports betting now being legal in over 30 states, teenagers are having problems with gambling addiction,” said Bellino. “It has been reported that many young people don’t see gambling as risky and that the percentage of high school students with a gambling problem is double that of adults. My bill has bipartisan support to head off this growing problem by acting to raise awareness among our students about the real risks of gambling.”
The National Council on Problem Gambling says between 60-80% of high school students say they have gambled for money in the last year.
Also, 4-6% of high school students are considered addicted to gambling.
Screenshot from BetMGM Michigan.
