Massachusetts Gaming Commission extends voluntary self-exclusion program for sports betting

The MGC has established Voluntary Self-Exclusion List ahead of the launch of sports betting tomorrow.

US.- The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has announced that a specific Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) list for sports betting has been established ahead of the market launch tomorrow (January 31).

Like its existing VSE programme, the list allows players to restrict their access to gambling for a fixed amount of time. With the launch of sports betting in the state, players will have the option to self-exclude from casino gaming floors, retail and digital sportsbooks, or both forms of gambling.

An early evaluation of the VSE program in Massachusetts found that enrollees reported significant improvements in gambling problems, mental health, and relationship quality six-months after enrolling.

MGC chair Cathy Judd-Stein said: “VSE programs are proven to be a successful tool for those who need a break from gambling to manage their own play. In light of research we have at our disposal, the MGC and our licensees are committed to offering these types of programs and a range of other resources to help gamblers in the Commonwealth.”

Mark Vander Linden, MGC director of research and responsible gaming, added: “While VSE is one way to help people struggling with a gambling problem, we highly recommend they also seek treatment from a qualified clinician.”

Marlene Warner, CEO, Massachusetts council on gaming and health, commented: “Massachusetts has provided innovation and leadership in the realms of problem and responsible gambling. This early and comprehensive approach to VSE continues in that tradition. We hope that anyone in need of a conversation and some help with minimizing the impact gambling has on their life will consider this evidence-based program.”

Last week, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission approved the state’s sports wagering catalogue, establishing which activities customers may wager on when retail sports betting launches in the state. Bettors will be allowed to wager on a wide range of sports, including major leagues like the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB.

Caesars partners with Raynham Park to open sportsbook in Massachusetts

Caesars Entertainment has partnered with Raynham Park to offer in-person sports betting in Massachusetts. The deal includes the opening of a 30,000-square-foot Caesars Sportsbook retail location at Raynham Park, south of Boston.

Caesars plans to open a temporary sportsbook inside the current simulcasting facility before moving into the permanent venue following regulatory approvals from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. In addition to in-person sports wagering and horse racing simulcast wagering, Caesars plans to launch on desktop and for download on iOS and Android devices.