Seven of America’s largest betting and gaming operators have joined forces to launch the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA). The official start of the independent trade association was unveiled on March 27, in McLean, Virginia.
Bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, Fanatics Betting and Gaming, FanDuel, Hard Rock Digital, and PENN Entertainment, who collectively command an 85% share of the U.S. sports betting market, have been united by a common idea to bolster the best responsible gaming practices within the industry. The undertaking would be backed by an investment worth more than $20 Million, according to the official press release of the organization.
The funds will be allocated primarily to academic research as well as public awareness and education campaigns. ROGA’s mission will be oriented toward five fundamental pillars.
To begin with, academic research will be one of the essential areas of focus, with the effectiveness and impact of RG measures at the forefront. ROGA will also facilitate the application of RG best practices that can be utilized by consumers and operators alike. In the same vein, the trade association will support consumer and industry responsible gaming education and awareness.
The organization will collaborate closely with member companies to create an Independent Data Clearinghouse as well as an Independent Certification Program. The first will establish a database, facilitating information sharing and enhancing consumer protections. The second will serve as an assessment tool for members’ responsible gaming efforts.
Dr. Jennifer Shatley Will Take on the Role of ROGA’s Executive Director
The pioneering association will be spearheaded by Dr. Jennifer Shatley, a world-renowned expert in the field of responsible gambling, boasting a wealth of experience in the industry. She will take on the role of an Executive Director, with a focus on ramping up the educational resources with reference to responsible gambling. With her hands-on approach and more than 25 years of experience in the field, she will contribute greatly to driving innovation and development in responsible gaming.
Dr. Shatley is known to collaborate closely with various treatment professionals, researchers, and academics. Yesterday, she commented on her new role as an Executive Director of the newly launched association: “I’m filled with excitement, enthusiasm, and gratitude to collaborate with our seven founding members as well as the broader RG community to build and spearhead impactful initiatives to advance responsible gaming in the online space.”
Problem gambling has become a growing concern in US society, with more than 2.5 Million in the grip of addiction, according to the standards of the National Council of Problem Gambling. The launch of the association comes at a time when 38 states and the District of Columbia have legalized sports betting and the need to establish and adhere to responsible gaming practices in the conditions of an ever-expanding market is greater than ever.
