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State of Play’s TL;DR
- The Arizona Department of Gaming is offering a free, self-paced responsible gaming training program designed for players, staff, and community members.
- The virtual program and briefing provide practical tools and resources as the industry increases focus on safer play and treatment access.
The Arizona Department of Gaming has rolled out a no-cost responsible gaming training aimed at increasing knowledge about gambling risks, promoting positive play, and linking people to treatment resources.
The training includes three self-paced phases totaling about three hours of content, with optional quizzes and the ability to pause and resume.
Jessica Roza, assistant director of government and community affairs, said the effort is about “increasing knowledge, confidence, and skills that make a tremendous difference in improving the conversations and interactions we may encounter day-to-day.”
A virtual briefing is scheduled for April 28 at 10 a.m. (registration required at arizonargtraining.eventbrite.com), and the course is available at gaming.az.gov/RGtraining.
The department’s release says the curriculum covers how problem gambling differs from responsible gambling and how to connect people with support.
The free training is open to anyone in or outside Arizona.
Up to 4% of Arizonans have gambling disorders
The training offers clear, practical benefits. Players gain a better understanding of the signs and risks of problem gambling and where to find help, while operators and customer-facing staff can use the material to improve safer-play conversations and compliance efforts.
The department highlights that gambling disorder affects 3-4% of Arizonans 21 and older, underscoring why outreach and education matter. Key practical takeaways:
- Helpline and support: Confidential help at 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783), text NEXTSTEP to 53342, or chat at problemgambling.az.gov.
- Operational value: Staff trained in risk recognition and referral can reduce harm, improve player trust, and help meet regulatory expectations.
- Industry influence: Free, accessible programs like this can set a local standard that other states or operators may follow as part of broader responsible gaming strategies.
Based on reporting by 12News.
