The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) is collaborating with the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) to establish a new standard in the industry.
On Tuesday, ROGA and the RGC announced a partnership to launch a certification program for online operators in the U.S. The certification creates a new industry benchmark through an evaluation of self-exclusion and player support tools. Staff training is also evaluated during the certification process designed to bolster RG programs and practices.
The certification identifies operators that go beyond state and regulatory standards.
“A sustainable online gaming industry must be built on evidence-based best practices, and this partnership with RGC will advance this mission by building a trusted and independent assessment to certify robust responsible gaming standards,” said ROGA Executive Director Dr. Jennifer Shatley.
ROGA members will undergo evaluation for the certification with the group accounting for roughly 90% of the legal U.S. sports betting industry in terms of total handle. Its membership includes operators that offer wagering in markets across North America.
- Bally’s
- Bet365
- BetMGM
- DraftKings
- FanDuel
- Fanatics
- Hard Rock
- PENN, owner of ESPN Bet and theScore Bet
“Our members are committed to long-term progress, and with RGC’s support, this program will serve as a clear signal that the industry is backing that commitment with actions that will allow players to make informed decisions about the platforms they use,” continued Shatley.
ROGA and the RGC debuted a new certification program this week after ROGA announcing a Request for Proposal process in January for its development.
It followed a proposal process for technology providers, which went live in late 2024.
Changes for ROGA
ROGA published a new set of guidelines in May for how operators handle VIP programs.
The guidelines recommend initiatives, including role-specific training for VIP hosts and automated and manual behavioral reviews. ROGA also recommends integrating RG messaging into communications between VIP hosts and players. The independent trade association also requests operators not to offer promotions to players in cool-off periods.
