The World Lottery Association (WLA), a global professional association of state lottery and gaming organizations, has granted the New York State Gaming Commission its most prestigious Level 4 Responsible Gaming Certification.
The premier accreditation recognizes the Commission’s ongoing efforts to incorporate Responsible Gaming programming across all four of its Gaming Divisions - Lottery, Gaming (i.e. Video Lottery Gaming and Commercial Casino Gaming), Horse Racing and Pari-Mutuel Wagering, and Charitable Gaming - and its commitment to continuous improvement.
The Certification marks the first time a North American Gaming Commission has achieved Level 4 status for implementing Responsible Gaming programming across a variety of gaming operations under its regulatory control.
“The Commission is pleased to be recognized for the consistent work we do to promote transparency and informed decision making among players and patrons alike. It is satisfying to know the WLA recognizes the Commission’s commitment to continuous improvement in this area as well,” said Commission Acting Executive Director Ronald Ochrym.
The Certification recognizes the Commission’s ongoing efforts to apply a strict responsible gaming framework to its game designs, advertising, player education, and treatment referral activities. Other factors such as research, reporting and measurement, and retailer programming were among other program elements reviewed by an independent assessment panel of international corporate social responsibility experts working in conjunction with the WLA to review the Commission’s Level 4 submission.
National Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Keith Whyte said, “NYSGC’s unified approach to gambling regulation continues to lead to improved responsible gambling outcomes. We applaud the Commission’s leadership and the hard work of all staff and licensees that is required to achieve this responsible gambling verification.”
Members of New York’s Responsible Play Partnership also voiced their support of the Lottery Division’s ongoing Responsible Gaming initiatives.
“We commend the Gaming Commission on this recognition,” said New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services Commissioner Arlene González-Sánchez. “Implementing strategies that can help reduce the risk of developing gambling disorders is not only responsible, but also demonstrates excellent leadership set forth by the Commission.”
New York Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director James Maney said, “The Council is pleased that the Commission is being recognized for their dedication to addressing the issue of responsible gambling and working towards efforts to reduce problem gambling. The WLA Level 4 Certification is a testament to the hard work that has been done by the Commission in recent years and we congratulate them on this designation.”
(New York State Gaming Commission)