Penn Entertainment has informed the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) that it will no longer use the term ‘risk free’ in any of its promotions or marketing material.
During a Commission meeting held on Tuesday, Penn Deputy Chief Compliance Officer and Regulatory Affairs Counsel Samantha Haggerty said that the company was taking the step following previous discussions held by the MGC about how operators present their welcome offers.
At the meeting Haggerty said:
“To further illustrate Penn and PI’s commitment to responsible gaming practices, Penn will not use the term ‘risk-free’ in any retail or online sports wagering marketing materials targeting the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
In fact, to demonstrate our commitment to responsible advertising and gaming, and after hearing the concerns of the MGC and those of other jurisdictions where we operate, the term ‘risk-free’ has been removed from all Penn gambling marketing materials.”
The launch of Ontario’s iGaming industry in April of last year saw the contentious issue of promotions brought to the fore as the Canadian province’s regulators banned inducements to gamble. Since then, lawmakers in state’s that had yet to launch sports betting took note with the likes of Ohio and now Massachusetts warning potential license holders about how they present gambling promotions particularly for new account holders.
Recent weeks have seen multiple issues arise from MGC meetings ahead of the launch of sports betting in Massachusetts. Last week, Caesars Entertainment agreed that it would no longer pursue agreements with educational institutions in the state. Meanwhile, the MGC delayed its issuance of a sports betting license to Plainridge Park Casino due to its association with Barstool founder Dave Portnoy.
An experienced iGaming commentator and analyst based in New York City - Jenny reports on regulation and gambling industry news and events.