Americans are embracing casino gaming and sports betting as acceptable forms of entertainment, according to a new consumer survey by the American Gaming Association. The data comes ahead of Responsible Gaming Education Month in September, and on the eve of the seventh NFL season with widespread legal wagering.

According to the report, 75% of Americans believe the gaming industry behaves responsibly in the communities where it operates, 9 in 10 Americans view sports betting as an acceptable form of entertainment, and 75% of Americans support legal sports betting.

“These latest survey results highlight a consistent trend over the years: As gaming expands to new audiences, Americans increasingly see the benefits of a legal, regulated, gaming marketplace that contributes to communities, prioritizes responsibility, and provides unmatched entertainment,” said Joe Maloney, AGA Senior Vice President, Strategic Communications.

The study also indicates increases favorable views toward the industry’s commitments to responsible gaming; 65% of Americans now say the gaming industry is committed to encouraging responsible gaming and combating problem gambling, up from 55% in 2023. Confidence among those who engage with the industry directly is strong, with 81% of physical casino players and 88% of sports bettors agreeing with this, up from 70% and 78%, respectively, last year.

The sentiment is driven by increased perceptions in several areas.

“The gaming industry’s responsibility efforts are stronger than ever and consumers are noticing,” said Maloney. “As we embark on another Responsible Gaming Education Month, we’re more energized than ever to continue our work to give consumers the legal, safe, and fun gaming experiences that they want and deserve.”

Kantar conducted an online survey between July 31 and August 9, 2024, among a representative sample of 2,000 registered voters aged 21 and over related to responsible gaming and industry perceptions. The margin of error is +/- 2% and greater among subgroups.

Rege Behe is lead contributor to CDC Gaming Reports. He can be reached at [email protected]. Please follow @RegeBehe_exPTR on Twitter.

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