News writer
For the fourth year in a row, the Illinois Lottery has achieved the highest standard in responsible gaming: a Level 4 certification from the World Lottery Association.
Eight lotteries in the country hold this distinction, which is awarded after a thorough analysis of safe gaming practices.
An elite certification
The World Lottery Association's (WLA) Responsible Gaming Framework evaluates lotteries across 10 core elements, with consumer safety in mind.
The elements include research, game design, retailer programs, player education, reporting and measurement, and employee programs. The Association, which represents 150 lotteries across the country, evaluates these elements for protection against consumer problem gambling.
If a lottery is strong in all core categories, it could be eligible for certification.
The certification is leveled 1 to 4, with 4 being the highest level of adherence to the core principles. Those lotteries with Level 4 certification have demonstrated not only a commitment to the principles but also continuous improvement in all areas. The certification typically lasts a few years before re-evaluation and renewal.
What's great in Illinois
Since 2022, the Illinois Lottery has ranked Level 4, and it received its re-certification today.
This is due to several state initiatives, including a state-wide Problem Gambling Awareness Month in March, safeguards like ID verification for online play, and self-exclusion programs for players who want help curbing their gameplay. Illinois Lottery Director Harold Mays said:
This re-certification reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring the Illinois Lottery remains a leader in responsible gaming. Protecting our players and promoting healthy play are fundamental to everything we do. Achieving Level 4 status demonstrates that commitment through measurable actions and accountable practices.
Which other states qualify?
Illinois shares the Level 4 distinction with several other states.
The California Lottery became the first state to reach Level 4, and it has maintained the certification for more than 10 years. Other Level 4 states include the New Jersey Lottery, the Hoosier Lottery in Indiana, the Oregon Lottery, and the Tennessee Lottery. The North Carolina Education Lottery (NCEL) was re-certified last year, for example, for its player education and prevention program Play Smart, and partnerships with the problem gambling community.
“NCEL has continued to enhance and improve its responsible gambling mandate and, today, boasts a world-class program that is fully integrated into all operational areas,” the WLA review found.
Intense application process
States must apply for WLA certification. To qualify, they must provide evidence-based, measurable actions that demonstrate the effectiveness of their responsible gameplay initiatives, a focus on improvement, and safety integration in all levels of lottery play. The WLA also conducts an independent assessment.
Safeguards are critical
According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, while most people gamble responsibly, an estimated 2.5 million adults (about 1% of the U.S. population) meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem in a given year.
Another 5 to 8 million adults (approximately 2 to 3%) are believed to have mild to moderate gambling issues that cause noticeable harm in their lives. These estimates include all forms of gambling, including lotteries, casinos, sports betting, and online games.
It's a national imperative to celebrate and acknowledge lotteries that value high safety standards.
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