MGM Resorts, BetMGM strengthen responsible gambling programs

The leading S&P 500 global entertainment company with a strong presence in the casino and hospitality vertical, MGM Resorts International, announced a number of initiatives just ahead of March, the Problem Gambling Awareness Month.

Last week, the company confirmed that together with its joint venture, BetMGM, will strengthen its responsible gambling efforts with several initiatives that seek to better protect gamblers from harm.

The two companies enhance their RG efforts

Notably, MGM Resorts confirmed it will donate $180,000 to Kindbridge Research Institute in an effort to help analyze the effect of sports betting on different audiences.

In addition, the generous donation will contribute toward the development of responsible gambling strategies.

On the other hand, BetMGM, the 50/50 joint venture between MGM Resorts and Entain, will expand its Kindbridge Behavioral Health referral program across the country.

The responsible gambling initiative provides customers in jurisdictions where BetMGM operates access to specialized mental health services provided by Kindbridge. Those services offer essential support for people affected by at-risk or problem gambling and at the same time highlight the operator's dedication to responsible gambling.

Further initiatives announced by BetMGM and MGM Resorts include the expansion of responsible gambling messaging from GameSense.

It was back in 2017 when the British Columbia Lottery Corporation developed and licensed the responsible gambling program, GameSense. The program was subsequently implemented by BetMGM.

The latest effort of the duo will boost the responsible gambling messages from GameSense, reminding gamblers across the nation that they have the ability to exclude temporarily from gambling and at the same time access responsible gambling tips and resources.

Another effort by BetMGM and MGM Resorts will see the duo engage with Gaming Law students from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).

Those efforts are ultimately expected to boost the long-term sustainability of the gambling industry while improving the experiences for BetMGM customers and MGM Resorts guests.

Further initiatives include a $60,000 donation announced by MGM Resorts to the State Councils on Problem Gambling, as well as renewed agreement between BetMGM and EPIC Global Solutions, a trusted problem gambling education consultancy.

The initiatives bring excitement to MGM Resorts, BetMGM

Stephen Martino, MGM Resorts' Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, commented on the topic.

"As a global gaming and hospitality leader, we are always looking to support innovative and actionable research that can make a positive impact," he explained.

Moreover, Martino pointed out: "As our company continues to grow both domestically and internationally, these studies will allow us to support our industry and enhance the sustainability of communities in which we operate."

Rhea Loney, BetMGM's Chief Compliance Officer, also spoke about the importance of responsible gambling for the company.

"Responsible gaming is a focal point of our operations, and we will continue to invest in programs that promote player protection and well-being," she revealed.

Speaking about the collaboration with Kindbridge Behavioral Health, Loney added: "Expanding our partnership with Kindbridge ensures that essential support services are always within reach for those who need it."

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