Programs and Services
For the Gaming Industry
For the Public
For the Gambler and the Family
Working with the Gambling Industry
The Gambling Industry has an important role to play in addressing problem gambling. WSCPG recognizes that most people who gamble do so for recreation with no negative effects. However, the gambling industry has a responsibility to take steps to address Problem Gambling among the small percentage of their customers who develop problems. To assist the industry, WSCPG works with the gambling industry to encourage the implementation of policies and programs address Problem Gambling.
The Industry Working Group
In February 1999, WSCPG helped found the Industry Working Group on Problem Gambling. The Industry Working Group—composed of representatives from Native American tribes, the private gambling industry, nonprofit gambling, the Lottery, Horse Racing, the Gambling Commission, and other industry groups and regulatory agencies—developed recommended policies and programs for gambling venues. The Group also produced and funded a Problem Gambling Training video. The Industry Working Group continues to help WSCPG with many projects to address Problem Gambling in Washington State.
Industry Policies
The Industry Working Group and WSCPG recommend the following policies for gambling venues.
- A Mission or Policy Statement on Problem Gambling. Every gambling venue should have a policy statement or mission statement on Problem Gambling. These statements should be publicly posted and be supported by owners and managers.
- Orientation and Training of Employees.
All gambling industry employees should receive training on Problem Gambling. Managers and owners should receive in-depth training. Lien employees and others should receive awareness training. Problem Gambling awareness should be part of employee orientation. Click here for more information on Industry Training.
- Posting of Helpline Number.
State law requires gaming venues to post the Washington State Problem Gambling Helpline number—1-800-547-6133. All gaming venues should comply.
- Additional Customer Education.
Gambling establishments should undertake additional customer education, including signs, posters, and other awareness material on Problem and Underage Gambling.
- Self-Exclusionary Policy.
Gambling establishments should institute Self-Exclusionary policies, also called self-banning policies. These policies allow Problem Gamblers to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling establishments. Self-exclusion is an important step in the recovery of many Problem Gamblers. WSCPG can provide examples of Self-Exclusion forms used by gambling establishments.
- Credit and Marketing Policies.
Credit and marketing policies should be designed so as not to exploit known Problem Gamblers. In particular, any individuals on the Self-Exclusion list should be taken off any marketing lists.
- Employee Assistance Program.
Any employee assistance program at a gaming facility should cover Problem Gambling.
|
