MGM Resorts International and BetMGM are once again partnering with the American Gaming Association (AGA) to promote Responsible Gaming Education Month (RGEM 2026) throughout September. The collaboration includes stadium messaging, a $320,000 funding commitment, and expanded employee training.
“Responsible gaming has the greatest impact when the industry works together as we have with Play Smart from the Start,” said Rob Lockwood, SVP Strategic Communications, American Gaming Association. “Our collaboration with MGM Resorts and BetMGM helps keep these important messages visible to players while supporting research and programs that can make a difference.”
The Play Smart from the Start messaging will appear on MGM Resorts’ Las Vegas marquees alongside GameSense content aimed at sports bettors throughout September.
Companies direct $320,000 to research and support services
MGM Resorts and BetMGM are contributing a combined $320,000 to responsible gaming initiatives as part of the partnership.
The funding includes research support through the International Center for Responsible Gaming and expanded sponsorships for multiple state problem gambling councils, including backing for the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline.
A donation is also directed to the Evive Foundation, an organization providing access to evidence-based digital tools and peer support for individuals affected by gambling.
GameSense messaging reaches new sports venues
GameSense messaging will continue appearing in select NFL stadiums and MLB ballparks in 2026, with new placements in Las Vegas’ NHL and WNBA arenas. The messaging will run on LED ribbons and scoreboards during pre-game activities.
The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) first developed the GameSense program and licensed it to MGM Resorts in 2017. The program centers on positive, transparent, and proactive engagement with guests and customers regarding responsible gambling practices.
Venues displaying GameSense messaging this year include:
- T-Mobile Arena (Vegas Golden Knights) — new for 2026
- Michelob ULTRA Arena (Las Vegas Aces) — new for 2026
- Acrisure Stadium (Pittsburgh Steelers)
- Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas Raiders)
- Empower Field at Mile High (Denver Broncos)
- Ford Field (Detroit Lions)
- GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Chiefs)
- Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Eagles)
- M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore Ravens)
- MetLife Stadium (New York Jets)
- Nissan Stadium (Tennessee Titans)
- State Farm Stadium (Arizona Cardinals)
- Great American Ballpark (Cincinnati Reds)
- Comerica Park (Detroit Tigers)
- Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox)
- PNC Park (Pittsburgh Pirates)
- Nationals Park (Washington Nationals)
“Player protection is a priority every day at BetMGM, and RGEM gives us an opportunity to highlight those efforts,” said Rhea Loney, Chief Compliance Officer at BetMGM.
“Through GameSense messaging in professional sports venues, employee education, and investments in research and support services, we are helping players access the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions,” Loney added.
Employee training program surpasses 3,000 certifications
MGM Resorts and BetMGM continue offering all employees research-based responsible gaming training, and the companies have now certified more than 3,000 employees through the GameSense Advisor program. Employees in over 45 company departments participate in the training, spanning both gaming and non-gaming resort areas.
“What makes reaching 3,000 GameSense Advisors so meaningful is the number of employees who have chosen to take an active role in promoting responsible gaming for our guests,” said Stephen Martino, SVP & Chief Compliance Officer, MGM Resorts International. “That collective commitment is helping us expand the reach and impact of our program across our company.”
During September, GameSense and RGEM messaging will reach guests and employees through digital platforms, retail sportsbooks and the MGM Grand Live Dealer studio. BetMGM Sportsbook messaging will prompt players to take a time-out, pairing the reminder with QR codes linking to responsible gaming tips and resources.
Additional commitments planned for September
Beyond the core campaign, MGM Resorts and BetMGM outlined several supplementary commitments:
- MGM Resorts is partnering with Carleton University on a casino employee research study
- MGM Resorts plans to collaborate with the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling to host educational booths at Las Vegas properties throughout September
- BetMGM continues its partnership with EPIC Global Solutions to offer employees the opportunity to attend a lived-experience session, providing insight into the human impact of problem gambling
- BetMGM customers are scheduled to receive targeted emails promoting GameSense and responsible play, including links to online tools and resources
- MGM Resorts and BetMGM are initiating guest and customer surveys on responsible gaming
- MGM Resorts and BetMGM will launch a social media and internal messaging campaign featuring executive thought leadership