Michigan Gaming Control Board adopts 1-800-GAMBLER as Problem Gambling Helpline

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has announced that it is adopting 1-800-GAMBLER as the state’s primary problem gambling helpline. This move is part of ongoing efforts to streamline access to responsible gambling resources.

With this new development, players across the Wolverine State now have access to the largest problem gambling helpline in the nation. The support line connects people affected by problem gambling with professional support, local referrals, and critical resources.

As part of their responsible gaming messages, all Michigan online gambling operators will be required to display the new number and update all listed helpline numbers by August 8, 2024.

The Michigan Problem Gambling helpline that is currently in circulation (1-800-270-7117) is being replaced with the National Problem Gambling helpline. 

However, according to the announcement, the old number will remain operational. The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services will receive all calls made to 1-800-GAMBLER from the state. 

In addition, Michiganders can also access the hotline by chatting support staff online through 1800gamblerchat.org or texting 800GAM. All the available channels are designed to give all citizens access to trained support staff every day. 

The National Problem Gambling Helpline Network connects individuals battling gambling disorders to well-trained support staff and professionals who offer assistance and resources in confidence.  

According to a statement credited to MGCB's Executive Director Henry Williams in the official release, adopting 1-800-GAMBLER as the state-wide problem gambling helpline is the MGCB’s way of reinforcing “its commitment to ensuring a safe and secure gaming environment for players across the state by ensuring that resources for treatment and recovery can be accessed quickly and easily.”  

The change is also a necessary measure to improve communication lines between vulnerable individuals and trained experts, the MGCB Executive Director revealed in the press release.  

This new development is coming on the heels of a proposed $4 million allocation to the state's Compulsive Gaming Prevention Fund to sponsor the problem gambling hotline and $1.9 million earmarked to the Michigan Gaming Control Board for regulation. 

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has commended MCGB’s collaboration as a positive step towards consolidating multiple state-level gambling helplines into one easy-to-remember problem gambling helpline number.

Keith Whyte, NCPG's Executive Director applauded the Michigan Gaming Control Board for its proactive actions to address the needs of those affected by problem gambling by adopting 1-800-GAMBLER.

According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, more than 2 million adults suffer from severe gambling problems annually, and over 4 million exhibit gambling disorders.

Michigan’s collaboration with the NCPG signifies the agency’s dedication to promoting responsible gaming practices, protecting and providing support to citizens in need.

The 1-800-GAMBLER number has been described by the NCPG Director as “an easily accessible helpline” and “a vital tool in providing problem gambling support services across the country.”

This consolidated helpline serves as a single, streamlined access point to local services and problem gambling help from anywhere in the U.S. It is also the world’s largest problem gambling helpline network.

With the new NCPG-MGCB helpline, players in the Wolverine State now have significant access to reputable Responsible Gambling resources.

King Media collaborated with the MGCB to execute a responsible gambling campaign, Don’t Regret The Bet. The campaign, now in its second year, is a notable part of Michigan's problem gambling intervention and has received multiple awards for its activities.

According to the founder of King Media, Coleen King, the project’s main objective is to improve the quality of life for Michiganders.

The Don’t Regret The Bet campaign received $3 million in funding from the 2024 fiscal budget back in December to continue working on the project. More allocation is expected in the next fiscal year in order to consolidate on the campaign's excellent results.

Michigan authorities continue to invest in making problem gambling resources available and accessible to people in need, including using proceeds of sports betting, internet gaming and lottery funds to sponsor Responsible Gambling initiatives.