Minnesota is still trying to legalize online sports betting, and its latest attempt includes a proposal to ban sports betting apps from sending push notifications to gamblers, a suggestion that could gain traction in other states if it proves to be the compromise that gets the bill over the finish line. If passed, SF3414, sponsored by Sen. Nick Frentz, will prohibit mobile sports betting platforms from sending notifications to users who aren’t actively using the app or website. There might be some exceptions, for instance to alert users to potential fraudulent activities. However, banning most push notifications would remove one marketing channel that operators have made extensive use of in other states.
The passage of SF3414 would not only make Minnesota the next state to legalize sports betting, joining over 30 others, but it could also set a precedent for addressing problem gambling by reducing external triggers, especially for individuals who do not use available responsible gaming tools.
Push notifications could pose a risk for problem gamblers
Minnesota’s move highlights a growing trend among lawmakers to scrutinize how gambling operators engage with consumers. Push notifications are a common way for operators to attempt to re-engage users. Through them, they prompt users to wager by offering bonuses, promo codes, or other incentives.
While push notifications could be an effective marketing tool for sports betting platforms, they could also pose significant problem gambling risks. The operator doesn’t know whether the user stopped playing because of problem gambling concerns or other problems. Unexpected prompts can be highly disruptive for individuals trying to control their gambling behavior.
It’s important to note that legal sports betting platforms offer many responsible gaming tools. They include self-exclusion, time-outs, and cool-off periods. Users who activate these tools should not receive promotional or other push notifications. However, many bettors disengage from the platforms without utilizing the features. Whether that’s because they don’t know about the available options or not, these individuals are vulnerable to re-engagement through push notifications. By restricting these communications, Minnesota aims to create a safer gambling environment for all players, not just those who actively seek help.
Another potential tool in responsible gaming efforts
Other responsible gaming features proposed by SF3414 include requirements for operators to display toll-free problem gambling hotlines. They include the 1-800-GAMBLER or other helplines operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling. Sports betting platforms would also be prohibited from advertising content appealing to individuals under 21. Moreover, they cannot use language such as “risk-free,” wording that has triggered several lawsuits against operators in the past.
Minnesota’s proposed bill aligns with a broader movement across the US to prioritize responsible gambling. That movement includes not only lawmakers and regulators but also stakeholders, such as operators and other trade organizations. An example is FanDuel’s MySpend dashboard. According to the company, it allows customers to track play and manage their gambling budgets. Meanwhile, the American Gaming Association has launched the Responsible Gaming Intervention Effectiveness Scale. With it, the trade group aims to ensure responsible gaming messages speak to their intended audience.
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