New York Promotes Responsible Gambling in March

This March will be the 20th anniversary of the launch of National Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and New York State is planning to celebrate the occasion. As part of its raising problem gambling awareness activities, the Empire State will illuminate a handful of buildings in the colour yellow as well as host events to discuss the topic.

The Empire State has the Responsible Play Partnership, which includes the New York State Gaming Commission, the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, and the New York Council on Problem Gambling. These three will be responsible for hosting said events where participants will be able to gain more knowledge on problem gambling and how to avoid it.

Efforts During March

Robert Williams, executive director of the NYSGC, said that through the efforts of NCPG and the RPP, the union is able to bring attention to the crucial matter of promoting a safe responsible gambling environment. He said that as gambling options in the Empire State continue to grow, it was important for locals to be aware of the countless responsible play tools they have at hand.

Sen. Joe Addabbo is also a major supporter of responsible play. He said that as the state enhances its gambling options, it is important to bolster problem gambling resources too. He also mentioned a series of recently passed regulations by the NYSGC for new rules on gambling ads, while also noting that problem gambling should be viewed as a mental health issue, and not just addiction.

In a recent meeting, the commission almost unanimously approved a set of new regulations on ads. One of the objectives of the new set of rules is to limit the exposure of sports betting commercials and marketing to underage bettors. In addition to that, a prohibition of false, deceptive or misleading statements has also been approved by commission officials.

During March, RPP will light its buildings across the state in yellow, which is the colour associated with problem gambling awareness. In addition to that, landmarks and gaming facilities will be also illuminated in yellow. Some of these properties, include the Albany International Airport Gateway, Empire State Plaza, Fairport Lift Bridge, Grand Central Terminal, Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex, and others.

Also, numerous events will be hosted throughout March. One of those already took place last week, at the Javits Center. Then on March 14, the RPP will organize a screening day to help identify individuals that may suffer from problem gambling. At the end of the month, there will also be a regional listening session by the OASAS with leaders from the problem gambling treatment community.

Empire City Casino Supports the Initiative

At the start of March, Empire City Casino also joined National Problem Gambling Awareness Month. For this year’s edition of the campaign, the gaming property has teamed up with the Mid-Hudson Problem Gambling Resource Center. Throughout the month of March, its porte cochère will be illuminated in blue and yellow.

Source: Boecker, Matt “New York Featuring Monthlong Activities To Bring Awareness To Responsible Gambling” PlayNY, March 10, 2023