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US states fail to protect gamblers as iGaming market expands

Legal online gambling is booming—but many US states are leaving players at risk. A new report exposes dangerous gaps in responsible gaming safeguards.

The image shows a blue and white logo with the words "Gamblers vs 28" written on it, along with a...
The image shows a blue and white logo with the words "Gamblers vs 28" written on it, along with a few playing cards and a stick. The logo is likely associated with a gambling game, suggesting that the image is meant to represent the differences between the two sides of the game.

US states fail to protect gamblers as iGaming market expands

A new report from the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has highlighted gaps in responsible gambling protections across US states. Released in 2022, the study found that four of the seven states with legal iGaming fail to meet basic consumer safety standards. The findings raise concerns about player welfare in an expanding market. The NCPG’s assessment measured state regulations against its Internet Responsible Gaming Standards (IRGS), a framework first developed in 2012. These guidelines, updated regularly to address emerging risks, outline best practices for consumer protection in online gambling. The report identified Delaware, Michigan, Nevada, and West Virginia as falling short of the minimum requirements.

Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania performed better, meeting most of the NCPG’s recommended safeguards. The organisation stressed that early exposure to gambling increases the risk of later addiction. To address this, the NCPG advocates for a public health approach, combining prevention, education, treatment, and research.

The NCPG also urged states to adopt the IRGS fully, ensuring stronger protections for players. Alongside policy recommendations, the group operates a 24/7 National Problem Gambling Helpline, offering support to those affected by gambling harm. The report underscores uneven progress in iGaming regulation across the US. While some states have implemented robust protections, others leave players vulnerable to harm. The NCPG continues to push for stricter standards and broader adoption of its guidelines in both existing and future markets.

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