Massachusetts Gaming considering further non-gaming related promotional bans

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is considering further tightening their promotional and advertising prohibitions. At a meeting on Tuesday (30 April), the commission discussed banning promotions or bonuses that are not related to gaming.

The first state to consider a non-gaming related promo ban was Ohio. In that state, Fanatics offered promotions that crossed between online sports betting and retail merchandise. Last year, just after Ohio launched its legal market, Fanatics offered merchandise consumers promotional bets at its digital sportsbook. The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) began discussing the idea of limiting such promotions last summer, but has not acted on it yet.

MGC outside counsel Mina Makarious said when introducing the topic that operators brought multiple issues to the OCCC. Among them, were how to implement it without creating unintended consequences and having a level playing field.

Ohio sports betting regulators are putting an end to a Fanatics Sportsbook promo offering “bonus bets” to Fanatics merchandise customers. https://t.co/oMcz8IZVf7

— RLinnehanXL (@RLinnehanXl) May 19, 2023

For the MGC, this was the first time that a non-gaming related promotions ban was introduced. Commissioners said they would like more information before moving forward. Commissioner Eileen O’Brien said she would want to see clear language for a rule, hear input from operators and get more education on the subject.

Massachusetts has the most stringent advertising and promotional guidelines in the US. The regulator requires 21+ on any advertisement that can be seen in or from a professional sports venues. It was the first to ban partnerships between universities and gambling companies. And it does not allow gambling advertising at any venue where 75% or more of attendees are expected to be under the age of 21.

Commissioners agreed that one of the first steps in discussing a non-gaming related promotions ban would be to get written operator input on the subject before moving forward.

On Monday (29 April) the commission agreed to adopt new know-your-customer methods brought to it by Fanatics and Caesars Sportsbook. It’s not clear exactly what the authentication methods are as the commission met with the operators in executive session.