The U.S. (ROGA) has launched a Request for Proposal (RFP) process aimed at developing a certification programme for online operators focused on protecting players from gambling-related harm. This initiative is part of ROGA’s broader mission to promote responsible gaming practices and ensure that gaming remains a recreational activity.

ROGA’s mission

Founded in March 2024, ROGA is an independent trade association comprising major U.S. online sports betting and gaming operators, including BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel. The organisation was established with a commitment of over $20 million to enhance responsible gaming initiatives across the industry.

ROGA aims to create a safer gaming environment by implementing evidence-based best practices and providing resources for both operators and consumers.

Dr. Jennifer Shatley, ROGA’s executive director, highlighted the significance of the certification programme, stating, “This initiative is crucial for validating operators’ responsible gaming efforts while promoting accountability within the industry.” The programme will cover essential areas such as corporate policies, self-exclusion protocols, employee training, and consumer education initiatives.

The certification programme

The programme will be tasked with the independent review of operator’s responsible gaming practices. The move sees ROGA strive to devise a harmonised approach regarding player protection amongst its member organisations. Responses are invited from suitably qualified service providers with experience in operating such a certification programme, with applications to be submitted by 28 January 2025.

One of the main goals of the ROGA certification programme is to enhance player protection from gambling-related harm. With the exponential growth of online gambling over recent years, the number of problem gamblers has naturally also increased. Gambling scandals have also made headlines, further underlining the need for effective measures when it comes to player protection.

Supporting education initiatives

In addition to developing the certification programme, ROGA has also for a national college gambling education campaign aimed at filling the educational gap surrounding responsible gaming among university students. Set to launch in early 2025, this initiative will leverage digital delivery tools to provide responsible gaming and financial literacy education tailored specifically for college-aged individuals.

In collaboration with organisations like EPIC Global Solutions and Kindbridge Behavioral Health, ROGA plans to arm students with the necessary information about risks associated with gambling and responsible financial behaviour. Courses will range from the odds of events and probabilities to the decision-making processes involved in gambling. With a better understanding of these areas, ROGA seeks to have students make informed choices while treating gaming as an entertainment activity as opposed to a source of income.

Collaboration with industry partners

ROGA’s efforts encourage collaboration among industry stakeholders, with the association working alongside researchers, regulators, and advocacy groups to promote responsible gaming initiatives effectively. This cooperative approach is instrumental in solving the complexities surrounding problem gambling and ensuring that all voices are heard when devising effective solutions.

A new benchmark

Implementing the certification programme will represent a major step forward in what has been an ambitious undertaking to elevate responsible gaming standards within the online gambling industry. This new, comprehensive initiative will validate the existing efforts of operators while fostering further improvements to drive a new level of accountability within the sector.

As online gambling continues to flourish, efforts like this will be vital in ensuring that players can have safe and enjoyable gaming experiences with minimal risk associated with problem gambling. With collaboration and commitment to best practices, ROGA is seeking not only to protect players but also to instil a culture of responsibility in online gambling environments.

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