Massachusetts has a limited and, at times, tentative relationship with gambling.
Online sports betting was only legalised in the state in 2022, and only 3 physical casinos are allowed to operate at any one time.
However, Massachusetts residents have access to casino-style gaming platforms.
Below, I will detail the responsible gaming resources available to players in the Bay State.
What is Self-Exclusion at a Casino?
If you feel as though your gaming has turned negative, you can consider joining a self-exclusion list.
These programs are designed to remove you from anything to do with igaming.
If you self-exclude from a physical casino, you will not be permitted to enter the premises.
If you self-exclude from Online Casinos in Massachusetts, you’ll be prohibited from making or using accounts, and you won’t receive any marketing materials or promotions.
Self-exclusion is time-bound, and when you register for a spot on this list it will typically last for 6 months to 1 year.
Responsible Gaming Steps to Take Before Self-Exclusion
As I’ve mentioned, self-exclusion is often seen as the last step to overcoming gaming habits that have become negative.
Before this, there are steps you can take using responsible gaming tools at gaming sites.
For example, you can spend less time and/or money by setting limits.
Most Sweepstakes Casinos give players the option to set a purchase limit on Gold Coin bundles.
You can set cool-off periods, ranging from days and weeks to months.
You may also consider deleting a platform’s dedicated mobile app off your mobile.
Who Controls The Massachusetts Self-Exclusion List?
The Massachusetts self-exclusion list is controlled centrally by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.
This is a typical standard set by many other states, and it’s echoed in The Bay State.
It’s a statewide program that works just like any other self-exclusion list, and the first step of registering yourself is to submit an application.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is responsible for regulating the casino, horse racing, and sports betting industries to protect players and drive down the negative impact of gambling in the state.
It accomplishes that by adhering to a strict code of ethics and promoting transparency, inclusivity, and integrity across the board.
How to Ban Yourself From Gambling in Massachusetts
You can apply to the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (VSE) in Massachusetts.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has a full-fledged solution available that covers all areas of betting, from online gaming to sports wagering.
The ‘dual self-exclusion’ format that restricts a person from every form of betting in Massachusetts.
There are a few ways you can access the VSE:
- Call the Safer Gaming Education line at 1-800-426-1234
- Use the GameSense website and chat online with a representative
- Email [email protected]
You can enroll remotely by undertaking a brief assessment.
Online Casinos vs. Physical Casinos
Online casinos aren’t permitted to operate in Massachusetts, but online sports betting platforms are.
Those that are regulated by the MGC will be covered by the VSE.
Therefore, if you register on the self-exclusion list, you’ll find that this will extend to these sites.
That’s the same for physical casinos.
They must follow the terms laid out by the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program, blocking you from entering the premises or making an account.
The 3 physical casinos that operate in Massachusetts will direct you to the centralized self-exclusion list if you decide you no longer want to enter the premises.
Sweepstakes and Social casinos aren’t regulated by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, so they won’t be included in the VSE ruleset.
Fortunately, the majority of Sweepstakes Casinos have their own catalogue of responsible gaming tools and resources.
How to Remove Yourself From the Self-Exclusion List in Massachusetts
When you sign up for the self-exclusion list in Massachusetts, you’ll be doing so for at least a 1-year restriction period.
That’s the minimum term set by the MGC, and it cannot be reduced.
The maximum term you can set is a lifetime restriction, which, again, you can’t reduce.
To remove yourself from the self-exclusion list once your set period has expired, you’ll need to reach out to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission and ‘petition’ for removal.
This can be done using a form found on the MGC website.
You’ll need to verify your identity, complete a reinstatement assessment, and secure a countersignature from a reputable agent.
If you cannot complete these requirements, your request for removal will not be accepted.
As this is a centralized list, the terms are the same regardless of whether you’re talking about physical or online casinos and sports betting sites.
Who To Contact In Massachusetts If You Have A Gambling Problem
The best people to contact would be those representing the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, the team responsible for managing the self-exclusion program in the state.
Phone: 1-800-327-5050
Website: https://massgaming.com/problem-gambling/
The next best stop would be GameSense Massachusetts, a charitable organisation that seeks to help those suffering from a gambling addiction.
Website: https://gamesensema.com/
There are also some nationwide resources that you can rely on, such as:
- Gamblers Anonymous – https://gamblersanonymous.org/
- The National Council On Problem Gambling – https://www.ncpgambling.org/help-treatment/