The growing number of people affected by compulsive gambling is a global challenge that couldn’t pass by the US. The country boasts millions of casino lovers, so it’s not surprising that many of them suffer from uncontrolled behaviours. Even though American gaming-controlling bodies already use multiple measures to prevent harm and inform the population about the possible threats, regulations must be adapted to modern needs. What reforms should the government consider?
Promoting Safer Gaming Through Multiple Means
Increasing customer awareness about the possible problems that uncontrolled gambling can bring should be the core priority for regulatory authorities. Preventing gaming-related disorders is easier than treating addictions, which is why users must be informed on how to act in different circumstances. Despite the number of socially responsible ads, the American gambling sector still lacks specific educational campaigns for the population.
Some users claim that implementing a British approach can benefit the US market. The country launched GamStop, a nationwide self-exclusion tool, in 2018, and over 400,000 people joined it during the following years. However, this program creates a lot of disputes: some players are confident that it harms their gambling rights and opt for non-GamStop gaming sites without limitations. In any case, self-exclusion is beneficial for developing healthy gambling habits, so American authorities should consider implementing a nationwide system that allows users to be voluntarily banned from risky entertainment.
Initiating Financial Checks
Overspending remains the main problem that leads to gambling addiction, and this issue can be resolved. Many online casinos allow players to deposit hundreds or even thousands of dollars per gaming session without checking whether a user can afford it. Here, the US can again consider the UK’s example. The country has recently initiated financial assessments for everyone desiring to join the iGaming world and play for real money.
The online casino must require newcomers to pass verification and provide bank statements before accepting the first deposit. If the gambling operator notices that a user struggles with financial problems, it must restrict access to the platform and recommend that users choose demo versions and play without investments. This approach can become advantageous for US online casinos, as it can limit gamblers’ expenses and help avoid debt. This aspect will significantly boost user awareness about safer gaming principles and motivate them to manage their bankrolls adequately.
Stricter Limitations for Overseas Companies
Currently, US states where gambling is not restricted don’t limit the presence of overseas online casinos. Even though this is beneficial for players as they have a great choice, it’s complicated for local regulators to control all the operators. Limiting the number of gambling companies in the country can make the sector more transparent, allowing responsible bodies to pay attention to every operator’s activities and ensure their transparency and compliance with standards.
Eliminating Fast-Paced Games
The speed and dynamism of casino games can encourage customers to gamble faster and deposit more, respectively. Online casinos often accelerate their products, boosting the degree of thrill and excitement. The mandatory requirement to slow down slot machines and other titles is an advantageous reform for the US iGaming sector. In this case, players have time to make informed decisions and are more likely to think over their future strategies and plan expenses before making the following spin.
Limiting Bet Sizes in Games and Slots
Currently, players can enjoy flexible conditions that include a broad betting range. The maximum deposit per one spin or round can reach hundreds of dollars, which can eventually result in significant losses among gamblers. Decreasing this amount is the best solution for coping with overspending and making customers learn the basics of bankroll management. Complemented by financial assessments, this change will positively impact users’ ability to plan their budgets in online casinos and take acceptable risks when gambling.
The Need for Nationwide Regulations
Currently, each US state has the right to decide how to control the gambling sector and which restrictions must be implemented. Such an approach makes sense since the country is big, and only one regulatory authority will not be enough. On the other hand, launching unified gambling standards covering the main aspects can bring positive changes to the sector. The UK’s latest reforms can be the basis for the American government: even though some players consider them too strict, the British controlling body succeeds in promoting a responsible approach to casinos and betting activities and decreasing the number of addicts.
Final Insight
The US is among the countries where gambling is well-developed, but the rapid evolution of its digital sector requires significant amendments. The need to promote safer gaming initiatives and motivate customers to behave responsibly calls for new reforms in the country. Not all the changes mentioned above will be positively accepted by the country’s population, but they can significantly benefit gamblers’ lives.
