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The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) announced the launch of a user-friendly online system that enables individuals to self-exclude from participating in any gambling activity regulated by the board.
The launch follows a recent milestone by the state’s self-exclusion program, which reached 20,000 voluntary requests in June.
Enhancing PA self-exclusion programs
Those seeking help for problem gambling can enroll online by visiting responsibleplay.pa.gov.
Beginning in 2006, Pennsylvania’s exclusion program was designed to let customers ban themselves from entering and gambling at PA casinos.
Now, the program has grown to include self-exclusions for Pennsylvania iGaming, sports betting, video gaming terminals (VGT) and online fantasy sports.
In a news release, the PGCB said there are new ways the board’s Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling (OCPG) is helping to enhance its program’s effectiveness.
Elizabeth Lanza, director of the OCPG, said that the casinos and the online gaming operators have an approved compulsive and problem gambling plan.
Each plan details several things, including:
- The training of casino and online operator employees on the signs and symptoms of gambling disorder and responsible gaming programs
- Policies and procedures on identifying those with potentially harmful behavior and the identification and removal of underage, self-excluded, and excluded individuals who have engaged in gaming activities
- Responsible advertising policies
- The casino and online operator’s participation in outreach programs
Milestone proves programs are working
In June, Lanza said the 20,000 voluntary self-exclusions proved the program works.
“The Casino Self-Exclusion Program, along with the agency’s 3 other self-exclusion programs, are effective and proven tools that allow for individuals to regain control over their lives, and to learn about other recovery resources.”
According to the PGCB, 21% percent (4,335) of the 20,000 who chose self-exclusion have opted for the lifetime ban.
In addition to online enrollment, Pennsylvanians struggling with a gambling addiction can call 1-800-GAMBLER or find help at 1800gamblerchat.org.
