Initiatives

Responsible Gaming

Although the vast majority of Americans and Missourians gamble responsibly, a small percentage of people – approximately 1% of the adult population – have a gambling problem.

Responsible gaming is a priority issue for the Missouri Gaming Association and our member companies. Since our founding in 1995, we have sponsored a full range of programs to promote responsible gaming.

Our member casino companies follow the guidelines of the American Gaming Association (AGA) Code of Conduct for Responsible Gaming, a pledge to employees, patrons and the public to promote responsible gaming in every aspect of the casino business.

Together, we work hard to ensure that the small percentage of people who cannot gamble responsibly get the help they need and that the illegality and dangers of underage gambling are communicated.

2025 PROJECT 21 SCHOLARSHIP

1st Place — Agnes Reel

MISSOURI GAMING ASSOCIATION INITIATIVES

FREE TREATMENT

Compulsive gamblers who are Missouri residents and their immediate families can access free treatment from specially trained and certified private mental health counselors and clinics.

Treatment is provided through the Missouri Department of Mental Health and paid for by the Compulsive Gamblers Fund, which receives a portion of each patron admission fee paid by the casinos. MGA was instrumental in establishing this dedicated fund through the Missouri General Assembly.

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EDUCATION

The Missouri Gaming Association is a charter member of the Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling (MACPG), which increases awareness about problem gambling. develops prevention and education programs for all ages, and directs problem gamblers and their families to free counseling and treatment.

Other partners include the Missouri Department of Mental HealthMissouri Gaming CommissionMissouri LotteryKansas City Port Authority and the Missouri Council on Problem Gambling Concerns, Inc.

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MIDWEST CONFERENCE

MGA is a sponsor of the annual Midwest Conference on Problem Gambling & Substance Abuse.

The conference attracts more than 250 addiction experts and treatment providers from throughout the Midwest. Attendees address addiction issues and treatment approaches for a variety of populations.

Professionals working with problem gambling and substance use disorders p to 15 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

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Project 21 Scholarship

High school seniors across Missouri are invited to apply by creating original essays, videos and posters that educate their peers on the illegality and danger of underage gambling.

In its 28 years, the Project 21 scholarship program — sponsored by MGA — has awarded more than $190,000.

The 2026 application will be available on our website in October 2025 with a deadline of February 1.

Application Available in October