Sports betting operators operating in Massachusetts have requested the state to temporarily waive the requirement for them to provide messages to customers regarding self-exclusion and other “play management” options. The operators have petitioned the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) to waive the play control requirement while they work on integrating it into their mobile sportsbooks.
Online wagering in Ma launched on March 15, and there are currently eight operators live in the state. All eight operators have requested the waiver, and seven of the waivers have been approved. Each operator has been granted a waiver with a specific compliance deadline, as each platform requested a different schedule for implementation. The waivers extend until either late July or early September. The current regulations require compliance to be in place by June 20.
Computer software updates necessary
Several operators have requested a temporary waiver due to the need for software updates. The play control regulation requires these operators to revise their technology platforms in Massachusetts to prominently display responsible gaming features such as self-exclusion. The provisions in 205 CMR 255 of the Massachusetts video games law outline the guidelines for sportsbooks to display messages to players regarding play management. Play management programs are intended to provide individuals with options to limit their gambling behavior and enhance responsible decision-making. Generic Band, the Director of Sports Wagering at the MGC, acknowledged the operators’ request and deemed it reasonable. Some operators have stated that they will require until September to implement the necessary technology for play management. Band further explained that Massachusetts Massachusetts sportsbooks are making self-exclusion tools offered; it is the specific display requirements in the regulation that have caused a delay in compliance with the gaming law.
Ma focus on trustworthy gambling
Responsible wagering in Ma has been a consistent focus for the MGC since the industry went live. CMR 255 requires a display that offers an explicit opt-in for self-exclusion, as well as a hyperlink to responsible gaming resources at specific stages of the sportsbook user experience. Each of the eight operators has expressed the need for additional time to fully comply. Commissioner Nakisha Skinner also noted that one operator has requested a waiver to be exempt from providing a monthly report on responsible gaming and self-exclusion activity.
The eight operators in Massachusetts are DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET, Barstool Sportsbook, and Betr. Fanatics MUM has been accredited for a business certificate, but seems to have yet to be able to launch its product throughout MA.
If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, call 1-800-327-5050 or visit www.mahelpline.org/problemgambling to speak with a trained counselor for free, 24/7.
Kemudian Holmes can be described as a staff writer for PlayMA with a lot of experience under his belt. Dan seems to have written several books on sports and was even previously a successful author of the books “Country Baseball’s Legendary” and “Mlb”. He even offers extensive experience covering betting coverage at other levels including Kentucky and Baltimore. Kemudian is currently relocating to Michigan with his family.
