EEGaming

MGM Resorts & BETMGM Commit $320,000 to Responsible Gaming Research & Partnerships

MGM Resorts International and BetMGM announced that they are once again partnering with the American Gaming Association (AGA) to promote Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM 2026) throughout September.

As part of their partnership, MGM Resorts and BetMGM are announcing a combined $320,000 contribution to responsible gaming initiatives. This includes research funding through the International Center for Responsible Gaming and expanded sponsorships for a variety of state problem gambling councils, including support for the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline. A donation is also being made to the Evive Foundation, an organisation that provides access to evidence-based digital tools and peer support for individuals impacted by gambling.

In addition, GameSense messaging will continue to be present in select NFL stadiums and MLB ballparks, with expansion into Las Vegas’ NHL and WNBA arenas. This includes messages on LED ribbons and scoreboards during pre-game activities. GameSense is an industry-leading responsible gaming programme first developed and licensed to MGM Resorts in 2017 by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC). The programme focuses on positive, transparent and proactive engagements with guests and customers about how to gamble responsibly.

“Player protection is a priority every day at BetMGM, and RGEM gives us an opportunity to highlight those efforts. Through GameSense messaging in professional sports venues, employee education, and investments in research and support services, we are helping players access the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions,” said Rhea Loney, Chief Compliance Officer at BetMGM.

Additionally, MGM Resorts and BetMGM will continue providing all employees with comprehensive, research-based responsible gaming training. The companies have now certified over 3000 employees through the GameSense Advisor programme. This training programme now extends to employees within more than 45 company departments including both gaming and non-gaming resort areas.

Stephen Martino, SVP & Chief Compliance Officer at MGM Resorts International, said: “What makes reaching 3000 GameSense Advisors so meaningful is the number of employees who have chosen to take an active role in promoting responsible gaming for our guests. That collective commitment is helping us expand the reach and impact of our program across our company.”

In September, GameSense and RGEM messaging will once again reach guests and employees via digital platforms, retail sportsbooks, and the MGM Grand Live Dealer studio. BetMGM Sportsbook messaging is set to remind players to “take a time-out,” with QR codes linking guests to more responsible gaming tips and resources. MGM Resorts’ Las Vegas marquees will also feature GameSense and AGA content encouraging sports betters to Play Smart from the Start.

Rob Lockwood, SVP of Strategic Communications at American Gaming Association, said: “Responsible gaming has the greatest impact when the industry works together like we have with Play Smart from the Start. Our collaboration with MGM Resorts and BetMGM helps keeps these important messages visible to players while supporting research and programs that can make a difference.”