MGM Resorts and BetMGM commit over $1m to responsible gaming initiatives during problem gambling awareness month
MGM’s investment includes $450,000 dedicated to groundbreaking responsible gaming research
MGM Resorts International and BetMGM have announced a $1m expanded commitment to responsible gaming research, public awareness, community partnerships, and employee engagement. This news comes as MGM Resorts and BetMGM join the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) in recognizing March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM).
MGM Resorts and BetMGM have jointly committed $450,000 to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) to fund a new, groundbreaking research initiative examining sports wagering and its impact on player behavior. This contribution will support independent, peer-reviewed research aimed at developing best practices and strengthening long-term industry sustainability.
“As sports betting continues to grow so must our understanding of its impact on our guests and customers,” said Stephen Martino, Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, MGM Resorts. “Investing in high quality research allows us to be guided by valuable data and insights, which will ultimately help us support our patrons, communities and industry.”
Over three years, this research will examine factors that may influence sports betting behaviors, including decision-making and risk patterns across different populations. The study will also explore trends and prevention efforts designed to strengthen industry-wide responsible gaming strategies.
Rhea Loney, Chief Compliance Officer, BetMGM, said, “Problem Gambling Awareness Month is an important reminder of our year-round responsibility to assist and empower our players. We prioritize player protection by investing in education, tools, collaboration, and meaningful support resources. Our commitment remains clear: to help every player make informed decisions and enjoy our products safely.”
In 2026, MGM Resorts and BetMGM will contribute over $850,000 to state and national organizations focused on problem gambling prevention, treatment, and responsible gaming measures. As a Founding Member, MGM Resorts will continue its sponsorship of the annual Nevada Council on Problem Gambling Conference and will feature the organization’s leaders in responsible gaming training sessions for employees.
Throughout March and beyond, MGM Resorts and BetMGM will increase responsible gaming messaging across casino floors, sportsbooks, and digital platforms through their shared GameSense program, developed and licensed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC).
Nationwide GameSense Advisor training, now exceeds 2,000 certified team members equipped to engage guests in proactive conversations and support. MGM has increased responsible gaming visibility across both gaming and non-gaming resort areas, including convention spaces, arenas, theaters, as well as MGM Rewards desks and the BetMGM app, with messages and QR codes reminding players to “take a time-out” and “set a budget” A Problem Gambling Awareness Month email campaign, featuring GameSense, was sent to all BetMGM customers. MGM Rewards has also conducted a guest survey to measure awareness and perception of responsible gaming initiatives and GameSense. MGM is also participating in the Cambridge Health Alliance’s 13th annual Gambling Disorder Screening Day, supported through employee communications and training channels.
This spring, MGM Resorts will introduce a new campaign, Earn More. Play Smart. integrating MGM Rewards with responsible play messaging. The campaign will remind guests that membership comes with responsibility, not just perks. BetMGM’s Mullet Over hockey-themed responsible gaming commercial featuring company ambassador Connor McDavid will continue to air during key sports broadcast across North America and will also be featured prominently across MGM Resorts properties.
