NCPG Releases 2022 Report Comparing State iGaming Regulations to Internet Responsible Gambling Standards

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) released its 2022 report assessing the consumer protection regulations from states with legalized iGaming against its Internet Responsible Gambling Standards (IRGS). The report, titled U.S. Online Responsible Gaming Regulations: An Evaluation Against National Council on Problem Gambling Standards finds that regulations in four of the seven states where iGaming is legal fall drastically short of NCPG’s minimum responsible gambling standards.

iGaming regulations in Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, and West Virginia do not mandate operators provide players with sufficient responsible gambling protections. Regulations from Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania met a majority of the standards outlined in the IRGS, but still fall short of meeting the full list. IRGS sets the standard for consumers to ensure whichever operator they choose; they can be confident that the platform has the responsible gambling tools necessary to assist in playing safely.

The National Council on Problem Gambling initially developed the Internet Responsible Gambling Standards in 2012 to help guide discussions among all stakeholders on internet gambling, including operators, regulators, advocates, and the public. The IRGS have received regular updates to reflect the current state of online betting, and recent trends in consumer protection and technology. The standards contain specific recommendations in the areas of policy, staff training, informed decision-making, assisting players, self-exclusion, advertising and promotion, game and site features, and working with research.

The most ethical and cost-effective response to gambling addiction issues raised by internet gambling is a comprehensive public health strategy that includes prevention, education, treatment, and research services. Responsible gambling standards are an important aspect of this approach. NCPG recommends every state with iGaming or those looking to legalize iGaming adopt the IRGS standards to best protect consumers from the negative consequences of gambling.