Lotteries across North America will now receive a stronger safer gambling accreditation thanks to updates introduced to the Responsible Gambling Framework (RGF) Certification Programme.
The RGF initiative is courtesy of the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).
Heather L. Maurer, Executive Director of the NCPG, commented: “Strengthening and expanding the RGF Program reflects a shared commitment to continuous improvement across the lottery industry.
“By introducing a more accessible entry point and enhancing the certification process, we are supporting lotteries in building meaningful, measurable responsible gambling practices that reinforce public trust.”
Alongside streamlined submission within the NASPL system and a reciprocal certification support with the World Lottery Association (WLA), both entities have also created a new entry-level path towards certification.
The Level One RGF Entry Certification was set up with the goal of expanding participation and strengthening the foundational commitments to responsible gambling.
Eligibility will be judged based on several criteria, including a lottery proving that it has participated in the March Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a verifiable participation in the Gift Responsibly Campaign back in November and December, and an official affirmation of the lottery’s safer gambling commitments by either a lottery Director, a Governor or a Premier.
Brian Rockey, President of the NASPL, concluded: “Responsible gambling is central to the credibility and long-term sustainability of our industry.
“These enhancements to the RGF Certification Program reinforce NASPL’s commitment to setting clear, measurable standards while making participation more accessible for lotteries at every stage of their responsible gambling journey.”