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The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) has introduced new regulations that tighten gambling advertising and marketing practices across the state. These updated rules, published on August 1, aim to enhance protections for young people and those at risk of problem gambling.
A key aspect of the changes is the outright ban on gambling advertisements in college environments, as well as in youth-focused media. Previously, restrictions primarily targeted sports betting, but the new regulations now extend to casinos and video gaming operators.
The reforms emerged after a public comment period and received approval from the Illinois General Assembly’s Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR) in mid-May.
“By adopting these measures, the IGB is building upon existing regulations to implement additional safeguards and standards that further protect the public and encourage responsible gambling habits,” IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter stated in the news release.
“These regulations provide for clear, consistent, ethical, and transparent advertising and marketing guidelines for all casino, video gaming, and sports wagering operations under IGB jurisdiction.”
Full Scope of Ban
The new regulations impose a comprehensive ban on gambling advertisements and promotions on college and university campuses. This includes any form of advertising published, aired, or displayed in college media outlets like newspapers, radio stations, and television broadcasts, as well as at sports venues primarily used for college events.
Additionally, the rules prohibit any depiction of college students, campuses, or university settings in gambling-related content.
Operators are now required to retain copies of all advertising materials, along with a detailed log indicating when and how these materials were distributed or displayed.
Furthermore, players must also be given the choice to unsubscribe or opt out of receiving any advertising, marketing, or promotional messages. The operators must also respond quickly to any requests from players to unsubscribe.
Other States Also Pushing for Tighter Ad Restrictions
Illinois is not the only state taking steps to tighten restrictions on gambling advertising, particularly in relation to colleges and universities
New Jersey lawmakers proposed a bill earlier this year aimed at limiting ads placed near schools or colleges, with a specific focus on prohibiting marketing that targets individuals under 21.
Although this legislation has faced delays in the New Jersey Assembly since May, the state has already enacted a law banning sportsbooks from forming partnerships with colleges and universities.
Similarly, New York has implemented regulations that prevent sportsbooks from advertising on college campuses or through affiliated media outlets. The rules also specify that marketing materials cannot feature students, collegiate settings, or any imagery associated with colleges.
Additionally, operators in New York are required to maintain records of their advertising for a minimum of four years.
There have also been some movements on the national level, where the American Gaming Association has established a Responsible Marketing Code that prohibits partnerships with colleges for sports wagering promotions and forbids the use of images featuring individuals under 21 in advertising campaigns.
Source: Next.io
