• The American Gaming Association has introduced a new online resource to help both players and industry stakeholders
• The core focus is on empowering all parties involved and helping them approach gambling with the right mindset, and awareness of their limits to have fun
• AGA does not want to analyze player behavior, but rather empower consumers to make decisions for themselves

The American Gaming Association has bolstered its efforts in helping make gambling safer with its newly-launched Play Smart Consumer Hub. This brand-new online resource is designed to promote a new core message called – Play Smart from the Start and will serve as the means to help players make informed decisions about gambling.

New AGA initiative wants to empower consumers

The key to this initiative is creating a resource that is constantly improved and available to anyone who may be interested.

The platform wants to promote core tenets such as "Right State of Mind," "Know the Game," and "Act Intentionally," which include common best practices in responsible play such as understanding the rules and odds, knowing one’s limits, and setting a budget as well as taking regular breaks.

AGA CEO and President Bill Miller had this to say on the occasion of the new initiative launch:

"Part of the fun of gaming is that everyone plays differently, but no matter how or where you play, staying in control starts with habits that work for you. ThePlay Smart Consumer Hubprovides players with straightforward, actionable tools to help them stay in control and keep gaming fun."

The Play Smart Consumer Hub wants players to be readily reminded of these best practices, but ultimately make the choice for themselves to engage in healthy behavior. AGA does not seek to over-analyze individuals’ gambling behavior but rather encourages sustainable play.

Companies and operators can benefit from the resource as well

The platform also provides other highlights, such as the Pre-Play Checklist and the Responsible Gaming IQ Quiz, to help you further flesh out details. Another notable part of the offer is easy access to the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER), which also includes state self-exclusion programs.

The platform also comes with the Industry Toolkit, which is specifically designed for operators and other stakeholders, allowing them to implement strong messaging guidance, and other pillars of responsible play, helping make the industry safer.

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