All legalized sports betting and iGaming platforms address problem gambling on an ongoing basis. On Friday, one company raised the bar on their daily outreach.

MGM Resorts and BetMGM expanded their commitment to problem gambling research, treatment and public awareness by announcing several new partnerships on the eve of Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM). These initiatives aim to provide important resources, research and strengthen industry-wide initiatives to better support individuals affected by problem gambling.

The partnerships break down as follows:

Kindbridge Research Institute (MGM Resorts)

MGM Resorts will donate $180,000 to support studies examining the impact of sports betting across various populations and the development of responsible gaming strategies.    

“As a global gaming and hospitality leader, we are always looking to support innovative and actionable research that can make a positive impact,” Stephen Martino, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, MGM Resorts said as part of the news announcement. “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.”

Kindbridge Behavioral Health (BetMGM)

BetMGM will expand its Kindbridge Behavioral Health referral program nationwide, ensuring players in all jurisdictions have direct access to Kindbridge’s specialized mental health services, providing critical support for those experiencing gambling-related challenges.

“Responsible gaming is a focal point of our operations, and we will continue to invest in programs that promote player protection and well-being. Expanding our partnership with Kindbridge ensures that essential support services are always within reach for those who need it,” said Rhea Loney, Chief Compliance Officer, BetMGM. 

British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) (MGM Resorts, BetMGM)

Starting Saturday, Mar. 1 and throughout the whole month, MGM Resorts and BetMGM will increase responsible gaming messaging from GameSense within their digital platforms and retail sportsbooks nationwide. Messages will remind sports bettors to “take a time-out” and include QR codes for quick access to responsible gaming tips and resources.

GameSense Advisors will also be staffed at BetMGM Sportsbooks and MGM Rewards desks across the nation, ready to provide assistance and support to anyone who might need it.

This comes at a terrific time. One of the biggest sports gambling events annually, the NCAA men’s college basketball tournament, tips off Tuesday, Mar. 18.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) (MGM Resorts, BetMGM)

Community outreach will expand to include universities by engaging with UNLV Gaming Law students. These sessions highlight the vital role responsible gaming plays in enhancing guest and customer experience.

“Our collaboration with MGM Resorts has been a valuable learning experience for Boyd law students, enhancing their understanding of gaming regulations through real-world exposure. Exploring the GameSense program firsthand helps them grasp the importance of responsible gaming, especially as more jurisdictions require such important initiatives,” said Sarah Gonzales, Director of Graduate Programs, William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV.

Other commitments announced include:

MGM Resorts is contributing $60,000 to affiliated State Councils on Problem Gambling to support various advocacy and preventative initiatives.

BetMGM renewed its partnership with EPIC Global Solutions, a leading problem gambling education consultancy firm, to provide a series of lived-experience education sessions for all BetMGM employees. Both MGM Resorts and BetMGM will continue to provide all employees with comprehensive and research-based responsible gaming training.

Both companies will continue their partnership with the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) Have A Game Plan – Bet Responsibly public service campaign. The two organizations also previously collaborated on Responsible Gaming Education Month, promoting responsible gambling during the past two football seasons at NFL games. 

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