§ 42-61.2-14. Compulsive and problem gambling programs.
The Division and the state acknowledge that the vast majority of gaming patrons can enjoy gambling games responsibly, but that there are certain societal costs associated with gaming by some individuals who have problems handling the product or services provided. The Division and the State further understand that it is their duty to act responsibly toward those who cannot participate conscientiously in gaming. Pursuant to the foregoing, Twin River and Twin River-Tiverton, in cooperation with the State, shall offer compulsive and problem gambling programs that include, but are not limited to (a) Problem gambling awareness programs for employees; (b) Player self-exclusion program; (c) Promotion of a problem gambling hotline; and (d) Education on responsible gambling and prevention of problem gambling. Twin River and Twin River-Tiverton shall modify their existing compulsive and problem gambling programs to include table games, sports wagering, and iGaming to the extent such games are authorized at such facilities or through the internet or a mobile application. Twin River and Twin River-Tiverton shall reimburse and pay to the Division no less than two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) in aggregate annually for compulsive and problem gambling programs established by the Division and no less than fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) in the aggregate annually for education and prevention programs. The contribution from each facility shall be determined by the Division. A person who is prohibited from gaming in a gaming establishment due to the player self-exclusion program shall not collect any winnings or recover losses arising as a result of prohibited gaming activity by said person. Winnings from a self-excluded person, after the deduction of taxes and other applicable withholdings, shall be forfeited to the division. The division shall forward such forfeited winnings, up to one hundred fifty thousand dollars ($150,000) per year, to the Rhode Island Council on Problem Gambling for its use for research, education, and prevention of teenage gambling addiction, with the balance to be transferred by the division to the general fund.
History of Section.
P.L. 2012, ch. 289, § 7; P.L. 2012, ch. 290, § 7; P.L. 2018, ch. 47, art. 4, § 4;
P.L. 2021, ch. 41, § 5, effective June 11, 2021; P.L. 2021, ch. 42, § 5, effective
June 11, 2021; P.L. 2022, ch. 104, § 1, effective June 20, 2022; P.L. 2022, ch. 137,
§ 1, effective June 20, 2022; P.L. 2023, ch. 135, § 4, effective March 1, 2024; P.L.
2023, ch. 158, § 4, effective March 1, 2024.