The nationwide effort to promote safe gambling practices is here.
Every September, the gaming industry focuses on encouraging responsible gambling behavior through Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM).
The 2025 event, spearheaded by the American Gaming Association, promises heightened efforts to educate consumers and enhance industry practices. With the theme "Play Smart from the Start," this year's campaign aims to inform all participants about the risks of gambling and promote smart decision-making.
In recognition of Responsible Gaming Education Month, DraftKings Inc. launched a unique campaign that promotes responsible gambling among its users. Also, a new bill in New Jersey aims to educate high school students about the risks associated with compulsive gambling.
Origins of Responsible Gaming Education Month
Responsible Gaming Education Month originated as an industry initiative to standardize safe gambling practices and minimize problem gambling risks.
Over the years, it has grown into a collaborative nationwide effort, engaging various stakeholders to promote responsible behavior in the gaming arena. The month serves as a platform for education and advocacy, striving to make responsible gaming an industry norm, thereby safeguarding the well-being of all participants.
Key Focus Areas for Responsible Gaming Education Month in 2025
The 2025 initiative underscores the importance of understanding gambling risks, setting personal limits, and making informed choices from the outset. Throughout the month, various stakeholders, including gaming operators, advocacy groups, and state lotteries, will run educational campaigns and events. These initiatives aim to:
- Raise awareness of problem gambling signs and support services, taking advantage of helplines like 888-ADMIT-IT in Florida and the nationwide 1-800-GAMBLER.
- Provide resources for safer gaming, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and play history monitoring.
- Encourage staff training, update responsible gaming materials, and foster collaborations with media and policymakers for broader outreach.
Industry and Consumer Engagement
The gaming industry is actively engaging consumers with practical tools to manage gaming behavior effectively. Features like budget builders and play history review options are being highlighted. Additionally, operators are introducing interactive campaigns, including raffles and sweepstakes, which reward participants for adopting responsible gaming practices.
Policy and Awareness Initiatives
Policymakers play a vital role in emphasizing responsible gaming. Many are expected to issue proclamations or support public awareness campaigns during RGEM. Collaboration with industry partners and media outlets ensures that responsible gambling messages and educational resources reach a wide audience, making it easier for consumers to find help and information.
Educational Materials and Resources
The Action Network, in harmony with Better Collective, sees sports betting and playing casino games as entertainment-first activities. Gambling should never put users at risk of severe negative financial or emotional consequences.
That's why we provide multiple responsible gambling tools for people to use.
There is also a wide array of additional educational materials available. Many organizations offer toolkits, brochures, digital banners, and social media guides, often in multiple languages. These resources aim to make responsible gaming information more accessible and actionable for both players and the general public.
Responsible Gaming Education Month marks the ongoing commitment of the gaming industry and its partners to fostering a safe and informed gambling environment. With a focus on education and proactive initiatives, RGEM continues to lead the way in promoting responsible gaming practices nationwide.
