What was the objective of carrying out this important research with Vixio Regulatory Intelligence and what results did it yield?
The report U.S. States’ Online Sports Betting Regulations: An Evaluation Against National Council on Problem Gambling Standards explores where state sports betting regulations are meeting model responsible gambling regulations as outlined in NCPG’s Internet Responsible Gambling Standards (IRGS). The goal of the report is to help states identify gaps in their current laws and regulations and provide a clear framework for making regulatory improvements to better protect consumers and promote responsible gambling. The report found that states vary widely in how their sports betting regulations stack up to model responsible gambling regulations. Ten states and DC met 40 or more of the 82 standards. Nine states met between 25 and 39 of the standards. Eleven states met between 10 and 24 of the standards. The report also found Connecticut, New Jersey, and Virginia led all states in their adherence to the IRGS model regulations.
Why is it claimed that U.S. states are not complying with most of the player protection standards outlined by NCPG’s Internet Responsible Gambling Standards (IRGS)? What can be done to resolve these disparities and promote best practices in responsible gambling?
The research conducted by Vixio Regulatory Intelligence showed that states have significant gaps between their published regulations and the model regulations outlined in the IRGS. To close these gaps, state regulators can use the IRGS and this report as a blueprint to identify how and where to improve their player protections. NCPG has done half of the work for each state regulator by showing them where they are excelling and where there is room for improvement, as well as an easy format to reference the regulations that other states have published.
What are the main gaps that have been found and how can states incorporate more consumer protection measures into their sports betting regulation?
Unfortunately, there are many gaps between state sports betting regulations and the IRGS. Of the 82 standards presented even the highest scoring states only met 49 of them. Certain areas of the IRGS, including those related to the availability of self-exclusion programs and player-set limits, are reflected in a majority of state laws and regulations for online sports betting. Elsewhere, however, a much smaller number of states have rules to prohibit credit card payments, while no state has a law or regulation that makes deposit limits mandatory. The report highlights essential consumer protection measures that states should incorporate into their sports betting regulations, including governance and policy; staff training; supporting informed decision-making by players; time and budget management; time-out and self-exclusion; customer support; marketing and advertising; gameplay; know your customer (KYC); and research, education and treatment.
Recently, the American Gaming Association made research which indicated that the gaming companies’ investment in RG grew 72% annually over the last 7 years. How can this difference be explained between what happens at the state level and what private companies in the sector are doing?
Gambling operators often go above and beyond what is required by state regulators, and NCPG is pleased to see those investments. However, a market is only as safe as its least compliant operator. It is up to the regulators to set sports betting regulations that ensure player protection is the top priority for all operators.
How does the NCPG work together with regulators and legislators, as well as with gaming operators in the United States?
NCPG collaborates with regulators, legislators, and gambling operators by providing policy guidance, educational programs, and training about responsible gambling and problem gambling. We advocate for consumer protection measures, such as self-exclusion programs and problem gambling services, while partnering with stakeholders at the state and local levels. NCPG also conducts research to inform evidence-based policies and regulations and guide public awareness campaigns to educate the public about gambling risks and promote prevention efforts.
What progress has been achieved in 2024 thanks to the initiatives of the NCPG and what strategies will be implemented in the coming months and in 2025 to continue promoting a healthier and more responsible gaming sector, which takes better care of gamblers?
In 2024, NCPG continues to see increased contact volume to the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), which reflects more public awareness of problem gambling as well as effects of national responsible gambling campaigns by sports leagues and gambling operators. In 2025, we hope to expand these efforts further and secure the first-ever Federal Funding for problem gambling treatment and research by passing the Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment (GRIT) Act.