Coinciding with Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the State of Michigan announced a new responsible gaming campaign that will be featured on multiple media platforms across the Great Lakes State.
The program, titled “Don’t Regret the Bet,” will promote responsible gaming and stress access to many forms of resources for Michiganders who may think they have trouble with wagering.
In 2021, the state reported approximately 1,500 calls to its 1-800 number for problem gambling. But in 2022 that figure nearly tripled to 4,400, according to the state. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported at an annual Gambling Disorder Symposium in February of 2022, that in 2021, the first year of sports betting in Michigan, referrals for gambling treatment increased by 42%.
Michigan launched online sports betting in 2021, and it has more than 20 casinos statewide. Last year, the state reported $1.98 billion in total gross receipts from gaming. That resulted in $302 million in taxes and payments to the state from casino and sports betting activity combined.
MGCB launches Don’t Regret the Bet website and ad campaign
The “Don’t Regret the Bet” campaign will be comprehensive, according to a press release from the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB).
“Starting in March, Michigan residents will hear and see new public service messages on local TV and radio stations and on popular social media platforms reminding them to enjoy gaming responsibly,” said Henry Williams, the MGCB executive director. “The yearlong campaign is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to reach the public with information, tips and tactics promoting responsible gaming.”
The website DontRegretTheBet.org debuted on March 6, and includes many resources for anyone who thinks they or a loved one has a problem with gambling. A section with downloadable resources includes access to a “Problem Gambling Self-Assessment,” as well as resources aimed specifically at teens and parents of teens, as well as senior citizens.
Those who feel they need immediate assistance can call the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-270-7117 and receive 24/7 help.
6 Takeaways from Don’t Regret The Bet Campaign for Responsible Gambling
The Don’t Regret The Bet website from the MGCB is structured around these six principles of responsible gambling:
- Think of Gambling as Entertainment, Not as a Side Job.
- Know Your Limits and Stick to Them.
- Keep a Good Balance Between Gambling and Other Activities.
- Keep Your Head on Straight.
- Don’t Believe it if You’re “Feeling Lucky.”
- Don’t Chase Your Losses.
The new campaign will broadcast messaging and public service announcements on television, radio, the internet, and signage across the state. It’s funded by the State of Michigan Fiscal Year 2023 budget, approved by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who has been a supporter of legalized sports betting in her state, but also an advocate for responsible gaming.
The MGCB also operates a state-run website with resources for gamblers, including the ability to be placed on a self-exclusion list for casinos and/or sports betting apps and retail sportsbooks in Michigan.
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