Ohio Bans Promotion of Non-Gambling Products that Encourage Sports Betting
Published: January 15, 2024
After months of consideration, Ohio regulators have officially banned operators from promoting gambling to customers engaging in non-gambling transactions.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) first proposed these regulations earlier this year after Fanatics Sportsbook advertised to customers who bought gear on their website to try out the new sportsbook. BetMGM tried to do the same on a food delivery app with a popup ad encouraging people to “deposit $5, get $50 in bonus bets at BetMGM.”
Now, the OCCC will now start prohibiting the promotion of gambling through non-gambling products with a few exceptions:
- The promotion does not target individuals under the age of 21, those with gambling problems, or ineligible to participate in sports betting.
- It’s offered only to verified users over 21 who have not self-banned from betting through the Ohio Voluntary Program, Time Out Ohio.
- It complies with requirements in the Ohio Administrative Code’s rule 3775-16-08(C).
With this new development in mind, it is important to remember to set limits, recognize the risk, and know when to stop if you choose to engage in gambling or sports betting activities.
Here’s how you can put those steps into action:
- Set Limits: Setting limits on the amount you can bet and lose, or the amount of time you play, is a key way to keep your betting responsible. There are apps or settings within online platforms available that can help set and enforce your limits.
- Recognize the Risk: Every bet is a risk, and the more you bet, the bigger the risk. Gauge that risk before you bet and find out whether you might be at risk for a problem with gambling by taking the two-minute Rate Your Risk quiz.
- Know When to Stop: When the rush of the bet begins to outweigh everything else, it might be time to stop. By setting limits and keeping yourself accountable, you can keep betting a fun activity.
Pause Before You Play has educational resources to help Ohioans learn more about responsible sports betting or gambling. There’s a wide variety of listings for free helpful organizations, programs, and local-to-you services. Access the Get Help page to find online listings for support groups, financial education resources, and more.
And if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, never hesitate to call the free and confidential Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline. Trained and understanding specialists will answer 24/7. Call 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741.