U.S. gaming industry spent $472 million on responsible gaming this year

Garance Limouzy September 27, 2024

A recent report from the American Gaming Association (AGA) reveals that investments in responsible gaming have grown at a faster pace than gaming revenues over the last seven years. Annual spending is now reaching $471.8 million. This represents a 72 percent rise from the $275 million spent in 2017.

The study, conducted by a leading global accounting firm, shows that the funds are being allocated to several areas:

– Customer service interactions: $135.4 million.
– Developing and maintaining responsible gaming programmes: $122.4 million.
– Consumer-facing responsible gaming education: $107.7 million.
– Responsible gaming research and other non-profit RG organisations: $31.8 million.
– Problem gambling supportive services: $26.1 million.

A proactive investment

Joe Maloney, the AGA’s Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications, explained, “This impactful rise in RG spending demonstrates the legal industry’s dedication to fostering a safe and informed gaming environment.” He noted that gaming companies go beyond their tax contributions by investing heavily to equip players with the resources needed to gamble responsibly: “Beyond the considerable taxes gaming companies contribute to fund responsible gaming and problem gambling resources, the industry also proactively invests hundreds of millions of dollars more to ensure our customers have the tools, knowledge and safeguards to play responsibly.”

Investment bears fruit

A recent survey by the American Gaming Association (AGA) revealed that public trust in the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming is also on the rise, with 65 percent now confident in its efforts, up from 40 percent in 2018. Awareness of responsible gaming messaging has grown, with more than two-thirds of Americans encountering such resources in the past year.

The survey also revealed that more Americans are embracing the gaming industry, both for entertainment and its positive economic impact. Americans increasingly recognise the benefits of a legal, regulated gaming market that supports local economies, creates jobs, and boosts tourism. 76 percent of respondents view the gaming industry as beneficial to the U.S. economy, while 85 percent believe casinos bring valuable entertainment options to areas that would otherwise lack them.

Responsible Gaming Education Month

The AGA’s latest research was released during Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM) 2024. As part of these efforts, the AGA unveiled the Responsible Gaming Intervention Effectiveness Scale earlier in September. This tool provides researchers, industry professionals, and others with a data-driven approach to assessing responsible gaming messaging.

Joe Maloney noted, “Our industry’s commitment to responsibility once again made RGEM a resounding success. We look forward to seeing the work done throughout this past month provide a springboard for continued advancements in responsible gaming in the months and years to come.”