The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has launched a new multi-media campaign aimed at encouraging Michiganders to bet responsibly.
Regulators partnered with the Lansing-based firm King Media to create the MGCB’s new “Don’t Regret the Bet” campaign, which includes advertising on television and radio, point-of-sale video ads at gas stations, and digital billboards.
According to MGCB, social media and digital media, including streaming services and podcast audio, will also be part of the campaign. Advertising for the campaign will also appear during broadcasts of professional and college sporting events.
MGCB announced that a website for the campaign, DontRegretTheBet.org, launched Monday “with information on responsible gaming.” The regulator added that it would also provide a link to the new campaign’s website from the Responsible Gaming section of the MGCB’s website.
“Starting in March, Michigan residents will hear and see new public service messages on local TV and radio stations and on popular social media platforms reminding them to enjoy gaming responsibly,” said MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams.
“March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to launch the MGCB’s educational campaign. The yearlong campaign is a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to reach the public with information, tips and tactics promoting responsible gaming.”
Coleen King, president and founder of King Media, said the company was “honored to partner with the MGCB to promote responsible gambling.
“'Don’t Regret the Bet’ is a campaign that will have a positive impact on individuals and communities across Michigan, and that aligns perfectly with our focus on meaningful work.”
Six Responsible Gaming Tips Offered
The campaign’s website outlines six tips for keeping gambling fun:
- Think of Gambling as Entertainment — gambling is form of paid entertainment, not a side job for making money
- Know Your Limits And Stick to Them — players should set limits and walk away when they reach them
- Keep a Good Balance — it’s important to have a healthy balance between gambling and other hobbies
- Keep Your Head on Straight — players should avoid using alcohol or drugs when gambling, and should also avoid gambling when depressed or stressed
- Don’t Believe It If You’re “Feeling Lucky” — understanding the concept that “several bad hands in a row doesn’t mean that you’re close to winning”
- Don’t Chase Your Losses — bettors should resist the urge to try to win back what was lost previously
The website also includes links to problem gambling resources, online responsible gaming tools, a problem gambling self-assessment, a list of signs of problem gambling for seniors, and a list of signs of problem gambling for parents of teenagers.
Last fall, MGCB advised parents of “tweens” — in general, children between the ages of 9 and 13 — that those years were the optimal time to discuss responsible gaming.
MGCB said funding for the campaign was included in its budget for fiscal year (FY) 2023, after winning approval from the Michigan Legislature and Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The agency said it will seek ongoing funding in FY 2024 “to continue the campaign beyond the current year.”
