The Washington Indian Gaming Association (WIGA) has introduced a new statewide public awareness campaign – Bet on Your Self – to “challenge the stigma” which prevents certain bettors from seeking problem gambling assistance.
"We've made real progress breaking down the stigma around many mental health issues, but that stigma can still be a barrier when it comes to problem gambling," WIGA Executive Director Rebecca George said.
"Bet on Your Self reminds people that hope and help are available, and that asking for help is a sign of strength."
WIGA currently represents 24 federally recognized Tribes located across Washington State and originally began to sponsor annual responsible gambling efforts in 2021.
The campaign uses a “positive, personal approach” to help reduce the harms of problem gambling and provide those in need with access to free and confidential support.
Bet on Your Self will run throughout September across television, social media, search and programmatic display advertising, as well as on WIGA’s various communication channels.
“The campaign is designed to reach frequent gamblers and concerned family and friends. It also aims to reach youth and young adults exposed to betting through gaming and emerging platforms including so-called ‘prediction markets,’” WIGA stated within the release.
Speaking of prediction markets, Kalshi recently alleged that Washington regulators used “selective-nonenforcement” when filing legal action against the operator, following a federal court ruling which prohibited event contracts related to sports, elections, politics, culture, technology and science.
The Washington Attorney General’s Office refuted Kalshi’s claims, and confirmed the operator had been the largest active across the state prior to the ruling made by King County Superior Court Judge John McHale on August 14.
Brightstar Lottery secured a seven-year extension with Washington’s Lottery on June 14, continuing a relationship which first began in 1996 and will now be extended through June 2036
