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The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) recently announced the launch of “Take Back the Game,” a new statewide campaign to raise awareness of the state’s self-exclusion program. The program allows residents to voluntarily ban themselves from all gambling establishments, event wagering platforms, and fantasy sports apps in the state for periods of 1, 5, or 10 years.
The responsible gambling campaign will be broadcast via digital, TV, and radio platforms across the state.
“Arizona first launched a voluntary self-exclusion program in the early 2000s as a tool for residents to opt out of visiting tribal casinos if they decided gambling was negatively impacting their well-being,” said Department Director Jackie Johnson in an ADG press release.
“Later, the department expanded the program to include event wagering and fantasy sports. Today, our agency affirms the value of self-exclusion as an empowering, practical tool that has positive impacts for thousands of Arizonans.”
In addition to the “Take Back the Game” program, the department launched two other public service announcements: “No Online Casinos” and “Too Young to Bet,” both available in English and Spanish. “No Online Casinos” informs the public that online casinos remain illegal in Arizona and urges them to bet only with licensed operators. “Too Young to Bet” raises awareness about the risks of underage gambling and encourages parental dialogue.
How to applying for Arizona’s voluntary self-exclusion
Arizona residents and visitors can complete self-exclusion forms digitally or in person at the Department of Gaming’s Phoenix office. The department maintains an in-house team of administrators and notaries public to assist applicants.
Appointments can be made by calling 602-771-4263 or emailing selfexclusion@azgaming.gov. A 30-second campaign video showcases the live application process. For digital applications, forms are available at gaming.az.gov/exclude. Completed forms can be submitted via email or sent by US mail.
The department regularly updates casino and sportsbook operators with the names of self-excluded individuals. Those who opt-in are barred from playing at specified platforms or accessing winnings for the duration of their chosen period. Furthermore, operators are prohibited from targeting self-excluded individuals with marketing materials.
Measurable success of the ‘Take Back the Game’ initiative
The self-exclusion program has assisted more than 11,900 Arizonans since its inception. There are currently 2,500 individuals under active self-exclusion. Participants report the program works by reducing triggers and temptations. Many say they now have more time to focus on their well-being and families, a theme depicted in the “Take Back the Game” PSA.
The department has adopted a coordinated public service media model. Since launching the Public Education Program Campaign with the Arizona Media Association in April 2025, there have been more than 14,720 English and Spanish TV and radio ads. Digital impressions reached more than 1.4 million in February 2026 alone.
About the ADG and responsible gambling resources
The Arizona Department of Gaming is the state regulatory agency for tribal gaming, racing and pari-mutuel wagering, event wagering, fantasy sports contests, and unarmed combat sports. The agency’s Division of Problem Gambling provides peer support, education, prevention, and treatment programs.
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. Call the confidential helpline at 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783) or text NEXTSTEP to 53342. You can also use the chat feature at problemgambling.az.gov. These services connect users to statewide providers specializing in low-cost and no-cost treatment and financial counseling. All channels are available 24/7.
