TLDR
- MGM Resorts and BetMGM are investing over $1 million in responsible gaming research and awareness in March 2026
- $450,000 goes to the International Center for Responsible Gaming to fund peer-reviewed sports betting research
- Over $850,000 will be donated to state and national problem gambling prevention and treatment organizations in 2026
- The GameSense program will expand across casino floors, sportsbooks, and digital platforms throughout March
- Connor McDavid’s “Mullet Over” campaign will continue airing, and a new “Earn More. Play Smart” campaign launches this spring
MGM Resorts International and BetMGM announced a commitment of over $1 million to responsible gaming this month. The announcement was timed to coincide with March being National Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
The two companies are joining the National Council on Problem Gambling in recognizing the month. This is part of a broader, year-round push on player protection.
A major portion of the funds — $450,000 — is going to the International Center for Responsible Gaming. That money will fund a new research initiative focused specifically on sports betting and player behavior.
The research will be peer-reviewed and independent. It aims to develop best practices and improve long-term industry sustainability.
Research to Run for Three Years
The ICRG study will run over three years. It will look at decision-making, risk patterns across different populations, and trends in prevention efforts.
“As sports betting continues to grow so must our understanding of its impact on our guests and customers,” said Stephen Martino, MGM Resorts’ chief compliance officer. He added that data-driven insights will help support patrons and communities.
BetMGM’s chief compliance officer Rhea Loney also commented on the initiative. She said the company’s commitment is to help every player make informed decisions and enjoy the products safely.
In addition to the ICRG donation, MGM Resorts and BetMGM will contribute over $850,000 to state and national organizations focused on problem gambling prevention and treatment in 2026. MGM Resorts will also continue its sponsorship of the annual Nevada Council on Problem Gambling Conference.
The companies will increase responsible gaming messaging across casino floors, retail sportsbooks, and digital platforms. This will be done through their shared GameSense program, developed and licensed by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation.
New Campaign Launches This Spring
This spring, MGM Resorts will launch a new campaign called “Earn More. Play Smart.” It integrates MGM Rewards with responsible gaming messaging, reminding members that perks come with responsibility.
BetMGM’s “Mullet Over” commercial featuring NHL star Connor McDavid will keep airing during key sports broadcasts across North America. The ad encourages bettors to think before placing a wager.
For the sixth year in a row, BetMGM is partnering with EPIC Global Solutions. All employees will have the chance to attend a lived experience session about the human impact of problem gambling.
The BetMGM Sportsbook app is currently live in 24 U.S. markets, with Missouri being the most recently added. Shares in MGM Resorts International closed 3.09% lower at $35.72 on Monday, and were down a further 1.99% to $35.01 in pre-market trading.
