Massachusetts Casinos: Tackling Gambling Problems

It’s easy to get carried away by the thrill of gambling games and the attractive prospect of hitting the pot. These characteristics, though not directly harmful, have raised concerns. They are seen to be the drivers of increased gambling-related problems over the years in the United States. However, as with many things, there are always exceptions. One state stands out for its relatively low problem gambling rates: Massachusetts casinos and gambling-related businesses.

Well, does that mean Massachusetts casinos don’t cause gambling problems? What programs and systems have they developed to overcome this issue? Today’s casino news addresses these questions.

Massachusetts Casinos and the Decline in Gambling Problems

A 2021-2022 survey conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) revealed that the commissioning of Massachusetts casinos, kick-started in 2015, has not significantly changed the incidence of problems related to casino games and gambling. The research’s lead investigator is Rachel Volberg, a research professor of epidemiology who has conducted epidemiological research on gambling and its related issues since 1985. She compared the survey report with the 2013-2014 survey done before the opening of the Massachusetts casinos. Volberg discovered that the rate of problem gamblers was 2% in 2013 and 1.4% in 2021, while that of at-risk gamblers was 8.4% in 2013 and 8.5% in 2021.

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Low Prevalence of Gambling Problems in Massachusetts

Massachusetts passed the Gaming Act in 2011, legalizing casino gambling. Thus, after introducing gaming establishments, the state allowed citizens to play American roulette, poker, blackjack, and other games. Yet, due to several factors, they have achieved some level of success in maintaining low gambling problems amidst the expansion of gaming entertainment.

One key factor is the state’s imposition of strict regulations on gambling advertisements and the promotion of gambling terms and services by Massachusetts casinos. This has limited exposure and reduces the potential for triggering problematic gambling behaviors.

Another critical factor is the limitation of casinos and other gambling venues. There are only three fully active land-based Massachusetts casinos. The state has no gambling online casino businesses except for social and sweepstakes casinos. By limiting the availability of gambling venues and activities, Massachusetts helps reduce the risk of problem gambling.

Successful Gambling Prevention and Treatment Programs

To prevent the negative impact of live and casino online gambling, the Bay State created the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) with the specific mandate of preventing gambling problems in Massachusetts casinos and other gambling firms. Since then, the Commission has implemented several innovative programs to tackle the issue, including setting the minimum casino entry age at 21. Below are some of the programs

Massachusetts Council on Problem Gambling (MCPG)

The Massachusetts Council on Problem Gambling (MCPG) was established in 1983. It is a non-profit organization offering various services, including a 24/7 helpline public awareness campaigns. It also provides professional training programs to support individuals affected by problem gambling and promote responsible gaming practices.

GameSense

MGC introduced GameSense in 2018, a program that provides on-site resources and support at Massachusetts casinos. This program helps patrons make informed decisions about their gambling behaviors. The GameSense info center is available for 16 hours every day in every gambling establishment in the state.

Research and Evidence-Based Interventions in Massachusetts Casinos

Massachusetts also invests in research and evidence-based interventions. They ensure their policies aren’t just reactive but proactive. The MGC based its regulations on years of research and analysis to ensure its gambling prevention and treatment programs are evidence-based and maximally effective.

Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPGS)

In 2016, the state established the Office of Problem Gambling Services (OPGS), a division of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The OPGS guides people who understand gambling terms but still have responsible gaming issues to recovery with a 24/7 helpline (800-327-5050) dedicated to connecting consultants and victims. 

Resources and Support Groups for Massachusetts Casinos

Massachusets make gambling addiction resources and support groups accessible for problem gamblers, where they can gain support from other recovering gambling addicts. These support communities include Gamblers Anonymous, Gam-Anon (a division of Gamblers Anonymous), Gamtalk, Smart Recovery, In the Rooms, and others. These programs provide a community of people who understand the struggle associated with gambling problems.

In addition, the state also made available the Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) Program for gamblers. This program allows gamblers to exclude themselves and be removed from all gambling platforms for a certain period—from a minimum of six months to a lifetime in Massachusetts. So, if you opt-in for the lifetime program, you won’t play casino games like American roulette anymore.

Another way of playing responsibly includes getting well-acquainted with the games you play. Make sure you read the online casino guide for every game you choose, so you play smarter every time.

A Responsible State

The critical success in addressing gambling problems in Massachusetts casinos can be associated with the state’s proactive approach and commitment to responsible gaming. The state has shown that balancing fun with responsibility is possible in gambling. They’ve developed a comprehensive strategy that protects citizens while allowing for a thriving gaming industry.

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