Michigan Gaming Control Board Promotes Responsible Gaming

After the Super Bowl, the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament is one of the biggest events on the calendar for our best sports betting sites. But, it's also an important time for responsible gaming to be highlighted.

With the March Madness on the horizon, and Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) underway, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has highlighted the importance of responsible gaming practices. 

In an , MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams encouraged residents partaking in the legal Michigan sports betting market to enjoy the month of March Madness but also to gamble responsibly.  

"We encourage Michigan residents to enjoy March Madness, but it's vital that they do so in a way that keeps their well-being a priority. Whether you’re placing a bet on the game or participating in other forms of gaming, setting limits and being aware of the risks is crucial to ensuring a healthy experience," said Williams. 

The MGCB also highlighted its ‘Double Down Michigan’ podcast. Launched in 2023 and hosted by Williams. The podcast discusses responsible gaming, gaming legislation in Michigan, industry news, current trends, and similar topics. 

In an episode recorded during last year’s Problem Gambling Awareness Month, Dan Trolaro, Co-Managing Director of Education and Training Services at IC360, shared his journey regarding gambling addiction and the steps he took to overcome it. Trolano highlighted the critical importance of noticing problem gambling and seeking help before it gets out of control. 

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) estimates that 2–3% of the U.S. adult population experiences problem gambling, while a further 1% suffers from severe gambling issues. These percentages translate to approximately 5 to 8 million people and 2.5 million people, respectively. 

To support residents in the Great Lakes State, the Michigan Gaming Control Board highlighted its resource page for problem gambling, including links to its self-exclusion programs and helpline. Ultimately, the MGCB stated that it would like to remind its citizens to “bet responsibly and stay informed about the potential risks associated with gambling,” particularly during March Madness season when millions of basketball fans are expected to engage in sports betting.

Responsible betting key to enjoying gambling

This is not the first time the MGCB has promoted problem gambling awareness before or during a prominent sporting event. 

In February, the agency highlighted the importance of responsible gambling concerning the Super Bowl LIX. Like with March Madness, Williams encouraged residents to enjoy the event and stated that betting responsibly is a key factor in ensuring an enjoyable experience. Bettors should take advantage of the tools supplied by Michigan sports betting apps. Those tools can include, but aren't limited to, deposit limits, betting limits, and both definite and indefinite self-exclusion.

“Each year, the Super Bowl unites millions of fans, football lovers, and bettors around the world. As we come together to watch the game, let's remember the importance of responsible betting to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.”

Problem Gambling Awareness Month promoted nationally

The PGAM is observed not only in Michigan but across the U.S. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) announced this PGAM theme earlier this month, ‘Seeking Understanding,’ and stated that this year, the aim is to “increase awareness of problem gambling as a serious yet often misunderstood mental health condition.”

In connection with this year’s theme, the NCPG has organized an events calendar for the month. At the same time, other organizations, such as the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network (OGTN), have announced their readiness to handle increased calls to their helplines during March Madness.