US online gambling affiliate BettingUSA.com has pledged to donate one per cent of all earnings to the National Council on Problem Gambling, with both parties calling on others to join the initiative.
The move has been made in order to help minimise the harms that it says “will likely occur” as a result of the expansion of gambling and sports betting in the country.
“NCPG advocates for states to earmark one per cent of gambling revenues to responsible gaming and problem gambling programs, and since most states fall well short of that target, we believe that it is in the best interests of the industry to contribute,” stated Steve Ruddock, analyst and content director at BettingUSA.com’s.
“BettingUSA.com is proud to spearhead this initiative alongside NCPG. We call on all gambling affiliates, and anyone else involved in the industry, to join us.”
In a media release both parties commented that “Gambling has economic benefits and it also has well-documented negative consequences. As novice and experienced bettors alike have more opportunities than ever to place bets, there is a risk that gambling problems and public concern will increase.”
It was further warned that “this could lead to a backlash and subsequent restrictions on gambling operations, not unlike what is happening now in the UK”.
Keith Whyte, NCPG executive director, explained: “The rapid expansion of sports betting and mobile gambling has led to numerous challenges and significant opportunities for everyone involved, including affiliates.
“These gambling affiliates play an important role in the online gambling ecosystem, and they have the unique opportunity to take a leadership role in responsible gambling efforts in the emerging US market.”
