The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has announced new self-exclusion numbers in the state. The state’s regulator was happy to declare a new milestone after stating that 20,000 individuals had requested to join the self-exclusion program for gambling.
Upon personal request, an individual in the Keystone State can ask to be listed in the self-exclusion program. This way, the person cannot participate in gambling activities at regulated live casinos and sports betting sites in the region.
Interviews revealed that 21.67% of the 20,000 participants (4,335) prefer a lifetime ban from gambling activities. Those enrolled in the program are aged between 21 and 102, with 12,811 males and 7,189 female subscribers. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board stated that 1,026 individuals who had declined the program later decided to rejoin. Additionally, 307 of the self-exclusionists chose to make their enrollments permanent.
All regulated gambling sites in Pennsylvania, United States, offer this self-exclusion program which was launched in 2019. This self-help tool allows Pennsylvania gamblers to voluntarily exclude themselves from online gambling for 1 year, 5 years, or a lifetime.
In addition to gambling sites regulated in the state, the law requires all Commonwealth online gaming sites to refuse wagers and deny gaming privileges to anyone on the iGaming Self-Exclusion list. The betting sites must also ensure self-excluded players don’t get targeted emails and other advertising materials such as casino bonuses and promotions.
Should players log into their casino accounts during this time, they could face criminal charges and lose their winnings. Of course, gambling sites that allow self-excluded players can also be penalized with subsequent revocation of licenses.
Elizabeth Lanza, the Director of the Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling, highlighted:
“The casino self-exclusion program, along with the agency’s three other self-exclusion programs, are effective and proven tools that allow for individuals to regain control over their lives, and to learn about other recovery resources.”
She added:
“The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board encourages anyone who thinks they may have a gambling problem to seek treatment and consider taking advantage of the voluntary self-exclusion programs.”
