NCPG reports inadequate consumer protections
The findings, prepared by Vixio Regulatory Intelligence, evaluates the extent to which each state’s sports betting regulations align with NCPG’s standards.
On September 19, the National Council on Problem Gaming (NCPG) released its “US States’ Online Sports Betting Regulations: An Evaluation Against National Council on Problem Gambling Standards” report.
The report, prepared by Vixio Regulatory Intelligence, evaluates the extent to which each state’s sports betting regulations align with NCPG’s standards. A total of 30 states and the District of Columbia that offered legal mobile sports wagering as of June 2024 were included in the study.
The analysis found that, on average, states met only 32 out of 82 player protection standards outlined by NCPG’s Internet Responsible Gambling Standards (IRGS). The goal of the report is to help states identify gaps in their current laws and regulations, providing a clear framework for making improvements to better protect consumers and promote responsible gambling.
“The IRGS serves as a roadmap for states to utilize when developing sports betting regulations, ensuring that player protection remains the top priority,” NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte said.
“This report reflects the patchwork nature of existing regulations and the significant gaps in consumer protections. We urge legislators and regulators to take immediate steps to close these gaps and work to mitigate gambling-related harm.”
Initially developed in 2012, the IRGS serves as a “comprehensive guide for operators, regulators and vendors to prioritize player protections and help mitigate the risk of gambling-related harm.”
Updated most recently in December 2023, the IRGS reflects best practices in responsible gambling, emphasizing safeguards for individuals who may be vulnerable to developing gambling problems.
Among the key findings were that Connecticut, New Jersey and Virginia are most aligned with the IRGS, meeting 49 of the 82 standards. Ten states and Washington DC met 40 or more of the standards including Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia.
11 states met between only 10 and 24 of the standards including Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, New Hampshire, Nevada, Rhode Island, West Virginia and Wyoming.
The report highlights essential consumer protection measures that states should incorporate into its sports betting regulations such as governance and policy, staff training, supporting informed decision-making by players and more.
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