The Colorado Department of Revenue announced the state Division of Gaming launched a new self-exclusion program, allowing individuals with problem gambling concerns to ban themselves from gambling at casinos and placing sports wagers at retail and online sportsbooks in the state.
Only an individual can place himself or herself on the list; it can’t be done by anyone else. Participants can sign up through the state government website or by mail.
Previously, the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado enrolled individuals and managed the self-exclusion list. Now the state is overseeing the program in order to achieve an efficient and “robust” program, said Colorado Division of Gaming Director Christopher Schroder in a press release.
He stated, “The Division of Gaming is committed to promoting responsible gaming in the Colorado gaming industry, and the launch of the state’s self-exclusion program is an exciting advancement for our state.”
Enrollees will not be allowed to redeem winnings, points, bonuses, comps or free plays at Colorado casinos. If they’re found to be gambling, self-excluded persons’ winnings will be confiscated and they could face criminal charges, according to the division.
Individuals can set their exclusion period for one, three, or five years. Once a person is placed on the list, he or she only can be removed with the approval of the director of the Division of Gaming.
Currently the self-exclusion list includes 550 residents, according to division records. The list has been distributed to Colorado gaming industry members.