In an industry-first move, the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) has unveiled a pioneering set of guidelines designed to infuse sportsbook VIP programs with the core principles of responsible gaming. This initiative seeks to address concerns surrounding a segment that, while lucrative, has come under increasing scrutiny for its practices.
The association’s groundbreaking recommendations, released on Thursday, underscore the importance of behavioral monitoring, enhanced host training, and ensuring VIP patrons are well-versed in the responsible gaming tools at their disposal.
ROGA, which came into existence in March 2024, brings together eight leading sports betting companies. These founding members collectively command approximately 90% of the legal US online gaming market, positioning ROGA as a significant force in shaping industry standards.
At the heart of these new guidelines is a commitment to integrating robust responsible gaming strategies within the management of high-value customer programs. Such programs are instrumental in rewarding loyalty among players through incentives, dedicated hosts, and personalized service. Dr. Jennifer Shatley, ROGA Executive Director, emphasizes that operating these schemes with a keen eye on responsible gaming is paramount.
Key among the 11 recommended practices are automated systems for spotting potentially risky behavior like frequent deposits or failed withdrawal attempts; escalation protocols for identifying concerning patterns; restrictions on promotions targeting self-excluded players or those taking a cool-off break; transparency regarding personal gambling data; and annual feedback-driven reviews involving both VIP customers and their hosts.
ROGA has announced that its members are committed to rolling out these practices within a “commercially reasonable timeframe,” underscoring their dedication to responsible stewardship in this high-stakes domain.
The spotlight on VIP programs isn’t solely industry-driven. Legal challenges have emerged as well. Notably, DraftKings faces litigation from a psychiatrist alleging that the company enticed her continued gambling despite her disclosed addiction. Similarly, FanDuel is contending with a lawsuit from an ex-Jacksonville Jaguars employee accusing the operator of exacerbating his gambling problem through VIP perks while he allegedly embezzled over $20 million.
Despite these controversies, sportsbooks maintain that their VIP offerings are consistent with hospitality norms across various sectors. They highlight that most customers engage in gambling responsibly and point out that measures such as in-app controls for self-regulation reflect their commitment to promoting healthy gambling habits.
While not legally binding, ROGA’s guidelines represent an important step towards fostering a shared understanding of how VIP engagements can be managed responsibly within the sports betting sector. The association also plans to continue developing research-based best practices on other critical issues moving forward.
This initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing responsible gaming policies within one of online gaming’s most dynamic segments – demonstrating an industry-wide commitment to safeguarding players’ well-being while enhancing their entertainment experience.
