Connecticut launches gambling self-exclusion website days before legalizing sports betting

The Department of Consumer Protection in Connecticut announced on Friday that it has launched a statewide online site that enables people to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling. The website has already been activated, days before the legalization of sports betting in the state which has been scheduled for October 7. 

This website, which is available on the state’s official webpage, allows people to choose to be added to the state’s Gaming Self-Exclusion List for one year, five years, or for their lifetime. Their names can be removed from the list if they request so. 

Individuals signing up to be on this list are warned that gambling licensees may ban them on the list from land-based properties as well as all of their online gambling, online sportsbook and any fantasy sports contest, including those located in other states.

In a joint effort made with the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Connecticut Council on Problem Gaming, the Connecticut Lottery Corporation, Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Mohegan Tribe, the Department of Consumer Protection is encouraging consumers to learn the signs of problem gambling and to practice responsible gaming habits once the industry opens to include both retail and online wagering. 

Do you or someone you have a problem with gambling?

Learn the signs of problem gambling, and if you need to, sign up for the new self-exclusion list to voluntarily ban yourself from gaming activities in the state at https://t.co/jJA1dEdDfD.https://t.co/G9vYSWNl10

— Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (@CTDCP) September 24, 2021

Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner, Michelle Seagull, spoke about this new tool in an official press release, and said: “While this may be a form of entertainment many people can enjoy, for others it can be a harmful addiction. The ability to voluntarily exclude yourself from these activities is one of the many tools available to help

Diana Goode, executive director of the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, added: “In the problem gambling community, self-exclusion is an essential step in helping people who are addicted. By creating a barrier from participating, it allows those in recovery a much-needed respite from triggers and reduces the likelihood of relapse.”

Governor Ned Lamont also expressed: “Connecticut is about to embark on a new future when it comes to sports betting and gambling, and with these new programs come renewed responsibilities for state government. We’ve worked diligently to have strong provisions to ensure our self-exclusion policy is effective, and provides the ability for individuals to take the proper steps to hold themselves accountable.”

Mohegan Sun

Both Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun, which will begin offering sports betting and fantasy sports next month, have allowed people to self-exclude themselves from the tribal properties for years.

“We are committed to problem gambling prevention and make it a priority to have helpful guides across our property and accessible on MoheganSun.com,” said Ray Pineault, President and CEO of Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment (MGE). “To further ensure responsible gambling, Mohegan Sun works closely with the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, and does have a self-exclusion program of our own as well. Our online gaming products, which will be a collaboration between MGE and FanDuel, will also have in-app tools to help guests enjoy this type of gaming responsibly. We look forward to the continued work with the state of Connecticut on this important topic.”

The portal is now available at ct.gov/selfexclusion. Other resources on problem gambling can be found at ct.gov/gaming.