Massachusetts commissioners are taking a proactive approach to understanding the potential impacts of iGaming and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in gambling on the public. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) recently announced that they will be conducting a comprehensive study on the effects of online gambling and AI technologies on society.
According to a press release from the MGC, the study will focus on how iGaming platforms and AI technologies are influencing gambling behaviors, addiction rates, and overall public health. The commission is particularly concerned with the potential for these technologies to exacerbate problem gambling and increase the prevalence of gambling-related harm.
Commissioner Cathy Judd-Stein emphasized the importance of ensuring that the expansion of iGaming and AI in the gambling industry is done responsibly. She stated, “It is crucial that we understand the potential impacts of these technologies on the public, especially vulnerable populations. By conducting this study, we hope to gather valuable insights that will inform our policymaking and regulatory decisions.”
The study will be conducted in collaboration with experts in the fields of psychology, public health, and addiction studies. Researchers will analyze data from existing iGaming platforms and AI technologies to assess their impact on users. They will also conduct surveys and interviews with players to gather firsthand accounts of their experiences with online gambling and AI-powered games.
In addition to studying the impacts of iGaming and AI on public health, the MGC will also examine the potential economic and social consequences of these technologies. The commission is particularly interested in understanding how online gambling and AI are affecting traditional brick-and-mortar casinos and the broader gambling industry.
The study is expected to take several months to complete, with a final report and recommendations being presented to the MGC in the coming year. In the meantime, the commission has advised the public to exercise caution when engaging in online gambling and to be aware of the potential risks associated with AI technologies in the gaming industry.
Overall, the MGC’s decision to study the impact of iGaming and AI in gambling reflects a growing awareness of the need to regulate these technologies effectively. By taking a proactive approach to understanding the potential risks and benefits of online gambling and AI, Massachusetts commissioners are demonstrating a commitment to protecting public health and safety in the rapidly evolving world of gaming.
