At last week’s summer meeting of the National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS), the group of lawmakers formally adopted a resolution regarding both responsible and problem gambling.
While the document only goes so far as encouraging key stances and objectives, not formalizing them into any sort of mandates, the measure nonetheless indicates that lawmakers are thinking about RG and having major discussions about the best path forward around the issue.
“Gaming in the United States is authorized and regulated at the state level, but states need guidance as gaming grows. This two-year effort by legislators is the first to leverage what we have learned for the benefit of our members as they grapple with this critical need,” said NCLGS President and Indiana state Sen. Jon Ford.
The resolution contains 16 bullet points about responsible and problem gambling best practices.
Echoing the discussion around the issue at SBC Summit North America, lawmakers will encourage cross-jurisdictional collaboration, sharing research, and focusing on evidence-based solutions.
That includes adopting a standard, single national problem gambling number. On a panel, FanDuel Head of US State Government Relations Cesar Fernandez pointed out that operators are struggling to cram several different state-specific numbers into the fine print of advertising. As a result, customers are losing out on crucial information about where to find help.
The resolution also calls for collaboration across states when it comes to self-exclusion lists. Currently, if someone self-excludes in one state, nothing is preventing them from signing up for a sports betting or online casino account in another state.
“Addressing problem gambling is at the top of the agenda for all of us at NCLGS. We urge all states that offer gaming to consider the guidance offered in this historic resolution,” added NCLGS Vice President Christie Carpino, Representative of Connecticut.
