Bet responsibily this March Madness: MGCB
NEWS RELEASEMICHIGAN GAMING CONTROL BOARD**********************
DETROIT — As the excitement of March Madness grips our nation now that Selection Sunday is over, the executive director of the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) would like to remind citizens to bet responsibly during this high-energy sports event.
“March Madness is a time of intense competition and thrilling basketball games, but it is also a time when many engage in sports betting,” MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams said. “While we encourage citizens to enjoy the tournament and the spirit of friendly competition, it is crucial to remember the importance of responsible gaming practices.”
The MGCB is committed to promoting responsible gaming behaviors and ensuring the integrity of sports betting activities. Betting can be a fun and entertaining way to engage with the games, but it is essential to:
- Set limits: Citizens can set self-imposed limits on gaming platforms for deposits, wagers, and the time spent on every site authorized in Michigan. The limits can be changed only with 24 hours’ notice.
- Never bet more than you can afford to lose: Betting on sports should be viewed as a form of entertainment and not as a guaranteed source of income. Before engaging in any form of sports betting, establish a budget that aligns with your financial means. Set realistic limits on how much you are willing to wager and adhere to them throughout the game. Only wager an amount that you can comfortably afford to lose without impacting your financial well-being or other obligations.
- Know the risks involved: Ensure you have a solid understanding of the sports betting rules, odds, and types of bets available. By educating yourself about the betting process, you can make informed decisions and minimize potential risks.
- Use only authorized sportsbook operators: It is essential to use legal and authorized sportsbook operators for a secure and fair betting experience. Unlicensed sites can leave you at risk for identify theft, deposit losses, or unpaid winnings. If you plan to bet on the Super Bowl or other sporting events, check the MGCB website for a list of licensed internet sports betting providers and a sports wagering catalog for information on legal leagues and bets.
The MGCB urges Michiganders to take precautions and seek help if they feel they may be developing unhealthy gambling habits. If you suspect you, a friend, or a loved one has a gambling problem, you can take this quiz on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website and get help by calling the Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-270-7117. Resources and support are available for those who may need assistance.
The gaming platforms and the MGCB also offer gambling self-exclusion options. You may visit the responsible gaming or help section of an authorized individual operator’s or provider’s website for self-exclusion information. The MGCB also offers self-exclusion from all legal, regulated sites through the Responsible Gaming Database for online gaming or the Disassociated Persons List for the three commercial Detroit casinos — MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown.
Michigan.gov/MGCB or call 888-223-3044 to speak with a Responsible Gaming Representative. The agency also encourages citizens to visit DontRegretTheBet.org, which has tips and information that can help keep gambling from getting out of hand.
Gambling in any form is for entertainment purposes only. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call 1-800-GAMBLER, text 800GAM, or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 and is free and confidential. Michigan citizens can also visit the Responsible Gaming page of the MGCB website for information on self-exclusion programs including the Disassociated Persons List and the Internet Gaming and Sports Betting Responsible Gaming Database, and DontRegretTheBet.org for additional tools to game responsibly.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the state of Michigan. Learn more at Michigan.gov/MGCB.
