MGM Resorts and BetMGM Pledge Over $1 Million for Responsible Gaming Initiatives

In a significant move to address responsible gaming, MGM Resorts International and BetMGM have announced a substantial commitment of over $1 million to promote responsible gaming initiatives, coinciding with Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). The commitment is aimed at emphasizing the importance of awareness, research, and community engagement in the context of gambling.

A Strategic Investment in Research

One of the highlights of this initiative is a dedicated investment of $450,000 towards groundbreaking research with the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG). This research will focus on sports wagering and examine its effects on player behavior. The goal is to generate independent, peer-reviewed studies that will help the industry develop best practices and contribute to long-term sustainability. Stephen Martino, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer at MGM Resorts, stressed that understanding the implications of sports betting is essential as the industry evolves. He believes that data-driven insights gained from this research will be crucial for assisting patrons and communities alike.

Support for Community and State Initiatives

In addition to their research investment, MGM Resorts and BetMGM have pledged over $850,000 to support various national and state organizations dedicated to problem gambling prevention and treatment. This funding will facilitate the ongoing sponsorship of key events, such as the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling Conference, allowing MGM to play a significant role in training sessions centered around responsible gaming.

Enhancing Education and Engagement

To further their commitment, MGM Resorts and BetMGM are set to increase responsible gaming messaging across various platforms including casino floors, sportsbooks, and digital channels. Their shared initiative, GameSense, aims to empower over 2,000 employees certified as GameSense Advisors, enhancing their ability to engage patrons in proactive discussions about responsible gambling. This program emphasizes education, with resources aimed at helping players establish budgets and take necessary breaks from gambling activities.

Larger Campaigns and Future Initiatives

Looking ahead, MGM Resorts plans to introduce a new campaign titled Earn More. Play Smart., which aims to merge the concept of responsible play with the benefits of MGM Rewards program. BetMGM will also continue its advertising efforts with a focus on responsible gaming, including a hockey-themed commercial featuring key industry figures. In a move to highlight the social responsibility aspect of its operations, the campaign underscores the principle that with rewards comes responsibility.

Employee Engagement and Training

For the sixth year running, BetMGM will provide employees with access to sessions that detail the human effects of problem gambling. Furthermore, both MGM Resorts and BetMGM will undertake a comprehensive internal messaging campaign, aiming to educate and engage staff in discussions about responsible gaming practices. Their collaborative efforts extend to ongoing training for employees, coupled with participation in nationwide initiatives designed to elevate awareness and knowledge regarding responsible gambling.

Conclusion

MGM Resorts and BetMGM are taking a proactive stance in addressing responsible gaming, signifying their commitment not only to their patrons but to the broader community. Their combined efforts this March and beyond reflect a serious dedication to understanding gambling behaviors and fostering a culture of responsible play in an industry that continues to grow and evolve. This partnership exemplifies how large entertainment entities can leverage their resources to promote positive change, reinforcing the message that gambling should be enjoyed in a safe and responsible manner. For continual updates, follow @mgmresorts and @BetMGM on social media platforms.