As the online gambling and sports betting industry evolves, the need for responsible gaming measures has never been more pressing. MGM Resorts International and BetMGM are reinforcing their commitment to mitigating gambling-related harm by expanding strategic partnerships focused on research, prevention, and player support. These efforts coincide with National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a critical period when industry stakeholders advocate for safer gambling practices.

The latest initiatives include extended collaborations with Kindbridge Research Institute, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), and EPIC Global Solutions. With research-driven strategies and enhanced player protection measures, these efforts underscore MGM and BetMGM’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and ethical gambling environment.

Investing in Research: A Partnership with Kindbridge

Recognizing the importance of data-driven solutions, MGM Resorts has pledged Rs. 180,000 to Kindbridge Research Institute, an organization dedicated to studying gambling behaviors and mitigating harm. This funding will enable in-depth research on the impact of sports betting across different demographics, allowing industry leaders to develop targeted intervention strategies.

Stephen Martino, MGM Resorts’ Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to research-backed solutions:

“As a global gaming and hospitality leader, we are always looking to support innovative and actionable research that can make a positive impact.”

Additionally, BetMGM is expanding the reach of the Kindbridge Behavioral Health referral program, ensuring that players in all operational states have access to mental health support services. This nationwide initiative reflects a proactive approach to player well-being, aligning with broader industry trends toward responsible gambling.

Expanding the GameSense Initiative with BCLC

To further reinforce responsible gaming education, MGM Resorts and BetMGM are deepening their collaboration with the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) by expanding the use of GameSense. Originally licensed to MGM in 2017, GameSense is a program designed to promote positive player interactions and encourage responsible gambling habits.

As part of the expanded partnership, responsible gaming messaging from GameSense will be integrated into land-based and digital sportsbooks. Additionally, MGM and BetMGM properties will deploy trained BCLC representatives across their venues to provide real-time guidance to players and promote safer gaming behaviors.

This initiative underscores the importance of direct player engagement in fostering a responsible gambling culture and reducing the risks associated with excessive gaming.

Enhancing Responsible Gaming Education at UNLV

Beyond player support, MGM Resorts and BetMGM recognize the need to educate the next generation of gaming professionals. Through an expanded partnership with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), they will continue their involvement in educating Gaming Law students on the complexities of responsible gambling.

This initiative is designed to equip future gaming industry professionals with a comprehensive understanding of regulatory compliance, ethical business practices, and harm prevention strategies. Sarah Gonzales, Director of Graduate Programs at UNLV’s William S. Boyd School of Law, praised the collaboration, stating that the partnership provides valuable, real-world learning experiences for students.

By fostering educational outreach, MGM and BetMGM are shaping the industry’s future leaders while reinforcing the critical role of responsible gaming in the broader gambling ecosystem.

Funding State-Level Gambling Prevention Efforts

In addition to corporate-led initiatives, MGM Resorts is committing Rs. 60,000 to State Councils on Problem Gambling. These funds will support state-level advocacy, education, and prevention efforts, further broadening the reach of responsible gambling programs.

At the same time, BetMGM has renewed its partnership with EPIC Global Solutions, a leading consultancy specializing in problem gambling education. Through this partnership, EPIC will continue providing responsible gambling training for MGM and BetMGM employees, equipping them with the tools to identify early warning signs of problem gambling and provide appropriate intervention.

By investing in both state-level and internal corporate initiatives, MGM Resorts and BetMGM are creating a holistic framework for responsible gaming that extends beyond regulatory compliance.

Conclusion: A Proactive Approach to Sustainable Gambling

MGM Resorts International and BetMGM’s expanded responsible gaming initiatives reflect a forward-thinking approach to sustainability in the gambling industry. By integrating research, education, and intervention strategies, they are setting a new standard for corporate responsibility.

As regulatory oversight tightens and consumer expectations shift, gaming operators must prioritize player safety and responsible gambling policies. MGM Resorts and BetMGM’s continued investment in these areas positions them as leaders in ethical gaming practices, ensuring that as the industry grows, it does so responsibly.