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AGA: 77% of U.S. casino visitors now trust responsible gambling

Discover how 77% of U.S. casino visitors now trust responsible gambling programs, highlighting the growing confidence in the industry's safety measures.

January 11, 2026
5 min read
Sarah Mitchell - Chief Casino Analyst
Sarah Mitchell
Chief Casino Analyst • 15+ years casino operations, Former Operations Manager at Betsson Group
January 11, 2026
Updated January 11, 2026
5 min read

77% of U.S. Casino Visitors Trust Responsible Gambling Programs, AGA Reports

In a significant development for the U.S. gambling industry, the American Gaming Association (AGA) has reported that 77% of casino visitors in the U.S. now trust responsible gambling programs, an increase from 67% in 2018. This leap in trust underscores the growing confidence in initiatives designed to promote responsible gambling practices among players. The report is part of a broader effort by the AGA to highlight the importance of responsible gambling as a sustainable business model, especially during its Responsible Gaming Education Month each September, according to Casino.org.

77% of casino visitors in the U.S. now trust responsible gambling programs, an increase from 67% in 2018.

📌 Key Takeaways

  • Trust in programs rises to 77% in 2023
  • Operators invest $471.8M in responsible gaming
  • AGA launches 'Play Smart from the Start' campaign

Record $471.8 Million Spent on Responsible Gaming in 2023

The trust in responsible gambling programs is buoyed by the record-breaking investment of $471.8 million made by U.S. gambling operators in 2023. This represents an impressive 72% increase from the $275 million spent in 2017, as detailed by EGR North America. The investment was primarily directed towards customer service interactions, responsible gaming program development, and consumer education, indicating the industry's commitment to player protection and ethical practices.

"Play Smart from the Start" Campaign Enhances Responsible Gaming Messaging

The AGA has further reinforced its commitment to responsible gambling through the launch of its updated campaign, "Play Smart from the Start." This initiative aims to improve the effectiveness of responsible gaming messages and is designed to be implemented across gaming companies. According to Casino.org, the program emphasizes having the right mindset, setting boundaries, and understanding the game, providing a comprehensive toolkit for the industry to enhance player education and engagement.

New Jersey's Proposed Regulations to Strengthen Player Protection

New Jersey is at the forefront of regulatory enhancements with its proposed responsible gaming regulations, which aim to standardize when online gaming operators must intervene with at-risk patrons. According to Covers.com, the regulations require operators to maintain a responsible gaming lead and establish criteria for identifying and assisting individuals with potential problem gaming behavior. These measures are part of a broader framework to ensure player safety and promote responsible gambling practices.

Technological Innovations in Responsible Gambling

Technological advancements play a critical role in enhancing responsible gambling measures. The use of AI and machine learning for player monitoring, as well as personalized responsible gambling tools, are becoming more prevalent. According to Sustainable Interaction, these technologies are crucial for identifying at-risk players and offering tailored support. Additionally, blockchain technology is being explored for ensuring fairness and transparency in gambling operations.

Future Implications for the Gambling Industry

The increase in trust and investment in responsible gambling programs has significant implications for the industry's future. As operators continue to prioritize player protection and ethical practices, they can expect to see sustained engagement and loyalty from players. Moreover, the integration of advanced technologies and regulatory enhancements will likely lead to a safer and more transparent gambling environment. The AGA's efforts, combined with state-level initiatives like those in New Jersey, set a precedent for a responsible and sustainable gambling industry.

For those seeking support, resources such as the National Council on Problem Gambling offeref="/guides/buy-bonus-slots">offeref="/guides/bonus-terms-explained">offeref="/guides/bonus-hunting-guide">offer valuable information and assistance. Players are encouraged to utilize prevention tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options to maintain a healthy gambling experience.

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Sarah Mitchell

Chief Casino Analyst

15+ years casino operations, Former Operations Manager at Betsson Group

Sarah spent 8 years as Casino Operations Manager at Betsson Group (2012-2020), directly overseeing bonus program design and player retention strategies. She has personally tested and documented over 500 casino bonuses across 200+ operators. In 2019, Sarah identified and exposed hidden wagering terms that affected 50,000+ players, leading to industry-wide transparency reforms. Her expertise in bonus mathematics has been cited by the UK Gambling Commission in regulatory guidance documents.

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