Photo: Massachusetts Gaming Commission
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — A recent audit of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission revealed several failures regarding how the agency monitors sports betting advertisements, supports those affected by gambling addictions, and handles class action lawsuits.
State Auditor Diana DiZoglio reviewed work from the commission from 2020 to 2023 and discovered that over a dozen sports-wagering advertisements did not provide information for the gambling helpline available to those who may struggle with a gambling addiction. The audit also found that the agents tasked with providing support to those impacted by gambling addiction were not properly trained as mandated.
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The State Auditor's Office also found that marketing materials were distributed to people under the legal gambling age of 21, reward cardholders did not receive detailed monthly win-loss reports, and the agency had no accountability process for reviewing and entering into employee settlement agreements, laying the groundwork for workplace misconduct.
The audit comes when sports betting companies like Boston-based DraftKings have been accused of using misleading promotions in several lawsuits.
Legislators on Beacon Hill have filed the "Bettor Health Act," which would regulate the sports betting industry in the Bay State. Sen. John Keenan introduced the bill to prevent practices that fuel gambling addiction.
WBZ NewsRadio’s Jim MacKay (@JimMacKayOnAir) reports.