Arizona officials have introduced a new educational program aimed at increasing awareness of gambling risks and promoting safer play. The Arizona Department of Gaming recently launched a free, self-paced Responsible Gaming Training initiative covering key aspects of responsible participation.
The course explains how gambling can lead to harm, distinguishes between healthy and problematic behavior, and offers guidance on supporting those facing gambling-related issues. It includes three sections, optional quizzes, and takes about three hours to complete, with flexible access.
State data indicates that gambling disorder affects three to four percent of residents of Arizona aged 21 and older. Officials say the program expands access to information previously focused on industry workers.
Jessica Roza, assistant director of government and community affairs, described the goal of the effort: “Offering this responsible gaming training is about increasing knowledge, confidence, and skills that make a tremendous difference in improving the conversations and interactions we may encounter day-to-day,” she said.
She also noted the broader audience for the program. “For many years, responsible gaming training has served as a cornerstone of education for gaming industry employees, strengthening safety and promoting responsible entertainment across the state,” Roza said. “Today, we’re excited to expand that impact by offering an on-demand training designed for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of responsible gaming —including those who may not currently participate in gambling, or work in the industry. This broader approach reflects our commitment to the Arizonans we serve.”
A virtual briefing on April 28 will introduce the training and allow questions from participants.
Betting Growth Underscores Need
The initiative comes as wagering continues to grow in the state. Bettors placed about $881.1 million in January 2026 and $760.4 million in February. Since 2021, total wagers have reached $33.1 billion, generating $175.1 million in state fees.
New Hampshire Forms Council To Address Gambling Harm
New Hampshire has created the New Hampshire Council for Responsible Gaming to connect residents with support services and respond to challenges tied to gambling expansion.
Officials acknowledged that the rapid growth of casinos and digital betting has brought unintended consequences. Former state senator Lou D’Allesandro said, “When you have gaming and an expansion of gaming at this level, you would invite problems, and the problems are addiction. You’ve got to have something in place to deal with this, and the Council for Responsible Gambling is going to create that.”
State senator Tim Lang added, “We are behind 8 ball on this topic, and we’re trying to play catch-up.”
Focus On Prevention And Access
The state recently introduced a unified self-exclusion system that allows individuals to ban themselves from all casinos through one registration. Council members also pointed to mobile access as a growing concern. “You know, the fact of the matter is every 17-year-old has a casino in their pocket. And in some cases, that’s unhealthy for people and they don’t know how to get out,” said James Rafferty.
The council plans to involve healthcare providers in identifying gambling addiction and promoting early intervention. Rafferty said, “There are problems. We’re going to step up to them. We’re going to do and be effective in trying to combat gambling addiction.”
Source:
“Arizona Department of Gaming Launches On-Demand Responsible Gaming Training”, gaming.az.gov, April 14, 2026
“State leaders launch NH Council for Responsible Gaming”, wmur.com, April 14, 2026
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