DraftKings made a new responsible gaming commitment Thursday.
The sportsbook operator announced a responsible gaming initiative worth nearly $1.6 million. Through the “The State Council Funding Program,” DraftKings will provide state responsible gaming councils across the US sports betting landscape with $15,000 per month for three years. It is a three-year trial, according to a release.
“Having spent several years of my career working with the state council in my home state, Massachusetts, I have seen first-hand how these organizations are a tremendous resource for individuals and families, and serve as a critical stakeholder and partner for gaming operators,” DraftKings Responsible Gaming Director Christine Thurmond said in a statement. “DraftKings is committed to advancing responsible gaming in collaboration with state councils across the U.S.
“Our hope is that this funding will give councils that extra support needed to fund priority areas, expand services, or hire additional staff; whatever is most needed, we want to help financially.”
DraftKings leaves funds open-ended
The local councils can use the funds how they wish, according to the release. That could mean adding to existing programs, or assisting employees with training and travel to conferences.
“State councils provide a first line of defense for addressing the needs of people impacted by problem gambling,” National Council on Problem Gaming Executive Director Keith Whyte said in the statement. “While it’s well established that these organizations provide critical assistance in the community, they don’t always have the resources and funds to take treatment and prevention to the next level.
“This significant initiative by DraftKings shows their commitment to and knowledge of the importance of the work state councils provide.”
Added focus on responsible gaming
DraftKings launched or joined multiple responsible gaming efforts in 2021. In June, the operator joined American Gaming Association’s “Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly.” campaign.
It also took a “systems-based approach to employee training in responsible gaming” with Cambridge Health Alliance, Division on Addiction and Harvard Medical School.
The company is also supporting the International Center for Responsible Gaming and the Kindbridge Research Institute on responsible gaming research.
Building on NFL RG campaign
Last fall, DraftKings also joined an initiative led by the NFL and NCPG. FanDuel Sportsbook and Caesars Sportsbook were also part of the collaborative campaign.
The initiative includes a three-year, $6.2 million investment to expand problem gambling prevention and treatment. The investment will help fund local and state programs.
The program debuted as NFL betting helped sports betting revenue balloon in legal markets across the US.
