Published on: September 17, 2024, 01:06h.
Last updated on: September 17, 2024, 01:06h.
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has revised its regulations on advertising for casinos, sportsbooks, and video gaming terminal host businesses.
State gaming regulators recently approved a series of new restrictions concerning how gaming operators promote their businesses.
Effective immediately, gaming companies are no longer permitted to use language that implies a gambler can participate without risk. This means terms like “risk-free” and “free bet” are now prohibited.
Advertising by gaming companies is not allowed at sporting events where a majority of attendees are underage. Sports betting ads are prohibited on college campuses and college-focused media outlets.
College newspapers and online platforms cannot accept ads from sportsbooks or casinos. Local establishments with VGTs are prohibited from directly advertising their gaming machines on college media.
Logos related to wagering and gambling are also banned from clothing and gifts targeting underage individuals.
Opt-Out Information Mandatory
As per the new IGB advertising rules, all marketing materials sent to patrons and target consumers must include an “opt-out” option that is easily accessible. Consumers should be able to opt-out of future marketing communications effortlessly.
IGB Administrator Marcus Fruchter stated, “The new rules adopted today will provide uniform advertising regulation and standards across all Illinois’ gaming markets under IGB jurisdiction.”
Illinois is home to multiple casinos, sportsbooks, and VGT establishments, with the gaming industry continuing to grow. New casinos are set to open in Chicago and its suburbs, including Bally’s integrated resort casino in downtown Chicago in 2026.
Concerns in the Industry
The sports betting industry has faced criticism for its excessive advertising and lack of consumer protection measures. A federal bill has been introduced to Congress to address these concerns.
The Supporting Affordability & Fairness With Every Bet Act (SAFE Bet Act) aims to impose regulatory conditions to better protect consumers in sports betting states. U.S. Rep. Paul Tonko and Sen. Richard Blumenthal are supporting the bill.
Among the provisions of the SAFE Bet Act are restrictions on using “risk-free” language and eliminating deposit bonuses. It would also ban sports betting ads during live sports programming and specific hours.
The use of credit cards to fund online sportsbook accounts would be prohibited nationally. Rep. Tonko emphasizes the need to protect the public from the dangerous levels of sports betting ads.