Disclaimers about problem gaming are part of most gambling ad campaigns.
The American Gaming Association wants to make sure those disclaimers provide clear and direct information for problem gamblers.
In a Tuesday policy statement, the AGA announced it will encourage gaming operators and related businesses to streamline requirements for national advertising campaigns.
“Problem gambling helplines are a vital resource for those in need of help,” said AGA Vice President of Government Relations and Gaming Policy Counsel Jessica Feil. “Unfortunately, lengthy lists of state-specific helplines on national advertisements create barriers for those seeking help when we should be making these critical resources easily accessible.”
Feil added that designating a national helpline would be the most effective way of protecting and helping players. Currently, each state has specific requirements for the inclusion of problem gaming disclaimers in print, digital and broadcast ads. While critical for local advertising, that approach may result in confusion and inconsistency in national ads, resulting in three possible outcomes:
- Diminished awareness because of hotline numbers using difficult-to-read fonts, reducing accessibility.
- Multiple hotline numbers that may cause confusion about the best number to call.
- Call-in requirements that may be less effective than text messaging and chat support.
“As gaming expands across the country, it’s imperative that our industry continues protecting all customers,” Feil said. “We believe there shouldn’t be obstacles to help for those who need it, and a modernization of the helpline system for national advertising is a good place to start.”
