This September, during Responsible Gaming Education Month, Caesars Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: CZR), the largest casino-entertainment company in the United States, is commemorating 35 years of its pioneering Responsible Gaming program. Since its inception in 1989 with the launch of Project 21, Caesars has played a leading role in advancing responsible gaming practices across the industry.
A History of Firsts in Responsible Gaming
In 1989, Caesars Entertainment became the first commercial casino operator to formally address problem gambling, introducing Project 21 to combat underage gambling and underage alcohol consumption. This was the beginning of a series of industry-leading initiatives aimed at promoting responsible gaming practices. Over the years, Caesars has implemented a range of tools and resources to assist both customers and employees in maintaining safe and responsible gambling habits.
Key milestones include the establishment of the first national gambling helpline in 1995, and the introduction of the first nationwide self-exclusion program in 1999, providing a framework for individuals to manage their gambling activity across Caesars’ properties. These and other initiatives have set the standard for responsible gaming within the broader gaming industry.
Caesars’ PEOPLE PLANET PLAY Framework
Caesars’ commitment to responsible gaming is embedded within its PEOPLE PLANET PLAY framework, which guides the company in acting with integrity and care for its employees, communities, and the environment. Under this framework, Caesars has launched various programs to enhance player protection and ensure safe gaming environments.
Among these initiatives is the Responsible Gaming Ambassador program, which trains Caesars’ team members to identify and assist customers who may need support in managing their gambling habits. This program now includes over 1,800 Ambassadors across North America. Additionally, Caesars offers betting limits and self-exclusion tools through both its land-based and online gaming offerings, giving customers control over their gambling behavior.
Industry Recognition and Continued Innovation
Caesars’ leadership in responsible gaming has been recognized through numerous accolades. In 2012, Caesars Windsor became the first casino accredited under the Responsible Gambling Council’s “RG Check” program. In 2024, Caesars earned the Corporate Social Responsibility Award at the National Council on Problem Gambling’s annual awards, in recognition of its Universal Exclusion policy and its enhanced 21+ gaming regulations.
The introduction of a universal exclusion policy in 2023 further solidified Caesars’ commitment to player protection. This policy extends across all Caesars platforms, including Caesars Sportsbook, iGaming, and brick-and-mortar casinos, ensuring a comprehensive approach to responsible gaming.
Future Commitment to Responsible Gaming
Caesars Entertainment remains dedicated to promoting responsible gaming across all its platforms. Through continuous innovation and a steadfast commitment to player safety, the company’s goal is clear: to ensure that all players enjoy gaming as a form of entertainment and have access to the tools they need to gamble responsibly.
As Caesars celebrates 35 years of leadership in responsible gaming, it looks forward to further advancing these efforts, setting new industry standards, and ensuring that responsible gaming remains a cornerstone of its operations.
“Responsible Gaming is at the heart of our business and it’s imperative that we provide the best resources for our guests to encourage safe play,” said Tom Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment. “Through the hard work of our Team Members over the last 35 years, we’ve innovated and invested to provide guests with various tools and education opportunities and championing industry change. We’re proud to be a leader in Responsible Gaming and look forward to expanding our programming as the gaming industry evolves.”
