MGM Resorts International donates six-figure sum to gambling harms research

MGM Resorts International has donated $360,000 to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) to support gambling-related harms research.

The funding will support two research projects that will each last for two years that are designed to “understand, prevent, and address the risks associated with gambling”.

ICRG has been a key figure in responsible gambling and problem gambling research since its inception in 1996.

This deal with MGM Resorts is the latest for the firm as it looks to work alongside key operators in an attempt to protect players who suffer from gambling addiction.

For MGM Resorts, the partnership continues its ongoing commitment to educate 60,000 of its employees on the risks associated with gambling as well as its use of the its own responsible gaming program, GameSense.

The ICRG’s research will be shared with other GameSense license holders and operators who will benefit from the findings.

Stephen Martino, MGM Resorts senior vice-president and chief compliance officer, said: “These research projects are critical to the continued success of the industry and are in the best interest of our guests, company, employees, and the communities where we operate.

“We’re pleased to continue our financial support of the ICRG and its critical work around responsible gaming best practices.”

Arthur Paikowsky, ICRG president, added: “We salute MGM Resorts for supporting our research that will answer the many questions we have about the impact of gender on gambling disorder and address the health risks of casino employees.

“The ICRG is very grateful for the company’s long-standing and continuing support of the ICRG.”