Massachusetts Sports Betting VIP Programs Face Potential Regulatory Changes

Massachusetts Sports Betting VIP Programs Face Potential Regulatory Changes
Calli Varner Profile Picture

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has proposed new responsible gaming rules that would regulate sportsbook VIP programs offered by licensed Massachusetts sports betting operators.

 The proposed rules would require licensed operators to update VIP program policies, host compensation structures, and public disclosures related to loyalty rewards and sportsbook promos.

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR) 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.
 MA PG Hotline LogoHope is here. Call (800) 327-5050 or http://gamblinghelplinema.org
Gamesense Logo Play it smart from the start! Live Chat @ http://GameSenseMA.com

Proposed Changes to VIP Program Rules

The MGC’s proposal includes multiple changes focused on responsible gaming practices within sportsbook loyalty and VIP programs. The regulations would apply to both online Massachusetts betting apps and retail sportsbook locations across the state.

Raising the Minimum VIP Eligibility Age

One proposed change would increase the minimum age for VIP program participation to 25 years old. Under the proposal, bettors under 25 would no longer qualify for VIP status or related benefits on Massachusetts sports betting platforms.

Restricting Performance-Based Incentives for VIP Hosts

Another proposed rule would limit or eliminate performance-based compensation for VIP hosts. This would prevent sportsbook employees from receiving incentives tied to how much their assigned customers wager or lose.

The change would apply across Massachusetts online sportsbooks and retail sportsbooks that operate VIP host programs.

Increasing Transparency for Loyalty and Rewards Programs

The MGC is also proposing new disclosure requirements for sportsbook loyalty and VIP programs. Operators would be required to provide clearer public information on eligibility criteria, reward structures, and how benefits are earned.

These transparency requirements would apply to Massachusetts sportsbook promos and rewards offered through the state's sports betting platforms.

Must be 21+ and physically present in MA New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First wager after registration must qualify. Min. Odds: -500. Max. Bonus Bet: $250. Awarded as non-withdrawable Bonus Bet that expires 14 days after receipt. Bonus Bet amount not returned for winning bets. Void where prohibited. See http://Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start®.
 MA PG Hotline LogoHope is here. Call (800) 327-5050 or > Gamesense Logo Play it smart from the start! Live Chat @ http://GameSenseMA.com

Next Steps for the Massachusetts Gaming Commission

The MGC plans to continue collecting feedback from sportsbook operators, responsible gaming organizations, and the public before finalizing any rule changes. Additional meetings are expected to focus on implementation timelines, enforcement standards and compliance requirements.

If adopted, the rules would place Massachusetts among the first states to implement formal regulatory oversight of sportsbook VIP programs within a legal sports betting framework.

quote

Author

Calli Varner

Calli is lifelong resident of Arizona and has been an avid sports fan since she can remember. After earning her Bachelor’s degrees from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University, she combined her passion for journalism and sports. Calli has covered the NFL, NBA, MLB, NCAAF, college sports, and sports betting for several media outlets.

Cited by leading media organizations, such as: