A Fresh Take on Maryland's Responsible Gambling Strategy
Maryland's Proactive Approach to Responsible Gambling
Maryland Aggressively Tackles Compulsive Gambling Issue
March ushers in a wave of awareness and action for responsible gambling in Maryland. The state's Lottery and Gaming agency is leading the charge to inform players and offer assistance to those grappling with problem gambling.
Flaunt it Loud: The Awareness Blitz
Maryland's all-out advertising campaign for Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) is here! Television and radio spots, billboards, and social media content aim to shatter common gambling myths and provide practical tips for playing responsibly. John Martin, Director of Maryland Lottery and Gaming, explains, "We prioritize responsible play and work closely with our retailers and operators on these issues. We want people to make informed decisions about gambling and know where to find help if needed."
Upgrading the Online Experience
Maryland's Lottery and Gaming's website is now library of knowledge on gambling responsibly. The revamped Responsible Play page on mdlottery.com features guidance vids, resource links, and a 'Fact vs. Fiction' section. Plus, detailed game rules and odds are readily available in the website's Games section.
Voluntary Self-Exclusion: Your Call, Your Choice
Maryland's self-exclusion program is a potent weapon in the war against problem gambling. This program has been expanded to cover lotto, casinos, sports wagering, daily fantasy sports, and electronic instant bingo halls. Jasmine Countess, the agency's responsible gambling director, points out, "Though not a cure, voluntary exclusion is an essential tool that's helped thousands regain control over their gambling habits."
Industry Partnerships and Certifications
Maryland Lottery is standing strong with the rest of the industry in promoting responsible gaming. The agency is seeking top-tier certifications through the Responsible Gambling Verification Program, jointly operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling and the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries.
Backed by Funding and Support
The Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling, under the Department of Health, coordinates treatment and research efforts. They monitor the 24/7 1-800-GAMBLER helpline and offer free counseling services to Marylanders. These services are funded by assessments paid by Maryland's six casinos to the state's Problem Gambling Fund.
Hitting the Right Mark: Casino Collaboration
Maryland's six casinos are pulling their weight during PGAM. Each casino has released statements on their commitment to responsible gaming initiatives, employee training, and collaborating with state agencies for safe gambling practices. For example, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore has championed its history of 35 years in responsible gaming programming, while MGM National Harbor has showcased its GameSense program, which offers decision-making tools for informed play.
Bracing for Online and Mobile Gambling
With the rise of online and mobile sports betting in Maryland, the potential for accessibility-related risks is on the upswing. Problem gambling experts at the Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling have warned of the increased odds of gambling addiction with the convenience at users' fingertips. To counter this, the Center offers an array of resources, including free counseling, peer recovery support specialists, and support groups to help those on the path to recovery.
The Final Bet
Maryland's holistic approach to responsible gambling underscores the state's commitment to prioritizing player safety and wellness. By addressing education, support services, and industry partnerships, the state aims to cultivate an environment where informed choices rule and help is always within reach. As gambling landscapes change, particularly with the surge of online and mobile betting, these initiatives will prove essential to a balanced and responsible gaming culture in Maryland.
Bonus Insights:
- Problem Gambling Awareness Month Extravaganza: Companies like FanDuel emphasize responsible gaming practices throughout PGAM, putting the spotlight on tools for managing gambling behavior[4].
- In-Game Sports Betting Knowledge Base: Maryland's Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling offers training and info on in-game sports betting issues, heightening awareness about potential risks and safe gambling practices[3].
- Self-Exclusion Program Hive: Maryland offers self-exclusion programs, which allow individuals to exclude themselves from gambling activities. These programs are managed by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency[4].
- Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling: An essential hub for resources on problem gambling, offering information, support services, training events, and assistance[3].
- Responsible Gaming Standards and Certifications: While specific certifications are not mentioned, companies operating within Maryland must adhere to responsible gaming standards enforced by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency[4].
- Counseling and Treatment for All: Maryland provides counseling and treatment services for individuals and families plagued by problem gambling[3].
- Helplines and Hotlines within Reach: Access to hotlines and helplines offering immediate assistance for those concerned about their gambling habits as well as those seeking help for someone else[3].
- Maryland's Lottery and Gaming agency is leading efforts in responsible gambling, enhancing their website's Responsible Play page and promoting voluntary self-exclusion programs that cover lotto, casinos, sports wagering, daily fantasy sports, and electronic instant bingo halls.
- The state's strategy for responsible gambling includes education, support services, and industry partnerships, working closely with retailers, operators, and providing practical tips for responsible gaming through an all-out advertising campaign during Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).
- In response to the rise of online and mobile gambling, Maryland's Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling offers resources such as free counseling, peer recovery support specialists, and support groups, emphasizing the importance of informed choices and a balanced, responsible gaming culture.
- Maryland's casinos are collaborating during PGAM, committing to responsible gaming initiatives, employee training, and working with state agencies for safe gambling practices, aiming to cultivate an environment where help is always within reach.
