MGM Resorts and BetMGM Announce Plans to Support Safer Gambling

All Ontario sportsbooks have tools to help bettors prevent gambling-related harms. BetMGM, one of the more recognizable betting sites, is taking the next step by finding more ways to support their bettors. 

BetMGM reveals plans to support bettors who are struggling through online therapy

BetMGM announced that it will expand its Kindbridge Behaviour Health referral program. Kindbridge Behavioural Health is a service that provides online therapy by connecting families, organizations, and individuals to licensed counselors, coaches, and support groups. Kindbridge specializes in providing therapy and treatment for gambling problems, gaming problems, and more.

“Responsible gaming is a focal point of our operations, and we will continue to invest in programs that promote player protection and well-being. Expanding our partnership with Kindbridge ensures that essential support services are always within reach for those who need it,” Rhea Loney said, BetMGM’s chief compliance officer.

According to BetMGM, the initiative will ensure that Kindbridge’s specialized mental health services are available to all players in jurisdictions where BetMGM operates online.

Like BetMGM, MGM Resorts made commitments to support responsible gaming. MGM Resorts announced a plan to donate $180,000 to Kindbridge Research Institute to support studies that examine the impact of sports betting across various populations and the development of responsible gaming strategies. MGM Resorts senior vice president Stephen Martino commented on the move.

"As a global gaming and hospitality leader, we are always looking to support innovative and actionable research that can make a positive impact," Martino said.

"As our company continues to grow both domestically and internationally, these studies will allow us to support our industry and enhance the sustainability of communities in which we operate."

Responsible gaming messaging and engaging with UNLV

BetMGM and MGM Resorts joined the National Council on Problem Gambling in recognizing March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month. BetMGM and MGM Resorts revealed plans to increase responsible gaming messaging from GameSense within their digital platforms and retail sportsbooks. According to MGM Resorts and BetMGM, the messages will remind sports bettors to take time outs and provide QR codes that give bettors quick access to responsible gaming tips and resources.

BetMGM and MGM Resorts also revealed that they have expanded their community outreach to include universities by engaging with UNLV gaming law students. UNLV director of graduate programs for William S. Boyd School of Law Sarah Gonzales commented on the collaboration.

"Our collaboration with MGM Resorts has been a valuable learning experience for Boyd law students, enhancing their understanding of gaming regulations through real-world exposure. Exploring the GameSense program firsthand helps them grasp the importance of responsible gaming, especially as more jurisdictions require such important initiatives,” Gonzales said.

MGM Resorts donated to Kindbridge Institute to help veterans experiencing gambling addiction last year

In March of 2024, MGM Resorts revealed a $100,000 donation to Kindbridge Institute to support voluntary medication trial for veterans experiencing gambling addiction in Las Vegas. According to MGM Resorts, the treatment would be the first of its kind and aims to reduce gambling urges and symptom severity for veterans with a gambling disorder.

"This contribution will help explore and identify innovative treatment for a population our company cares deeply about," Martino said.

"We have a longstanding commitment to supporting military members and their families year-round and are privileged to invest in research that benefits this important community."

Kindbridge Research Institute executive director Nathan Smith commented on MGM Resort’s contributions to their research.

"We are so grateful for MGM Resorts' support of this research to improve the lives of veterans and extend the work of the many great scientists, treatment providers, and donors of the 50x4vets program," Smith said.