Responsible Gambling Policy
1. Purpose and Scope
This policy outlines the responsible gambling practices at Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls, Ontario. It applies to all gaming activities on the premises and defines the procedures, protections, and support mechanisms for patrons. The facility is regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), operates in cooperation with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), and holds Responsible Gambling Council RG Check accreditation.
2. Regulatory Framework
2.1 Governing Bodies
Gaming operations fall under the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, pursuant to the Gaming Control Act, 1992, and the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming. The property is owned by OLG and operated by Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment under a service agreement. All responsible gambling practices are established according to provincial legislation and AGCO standards.
2.2 Age Restrictions
Access to the gaming floor is limited to persons aged 19 or older. Identification verification is required. Persons under 19 are not permitted in gaming areas, may not participate in games of chance, or consume alcohol on the premises. Breach of age restrictions may result in removal and legal consequences as set out by provincial law.
3. Self-Exclusion Program
3.1 Enrollment
Patrons wishing to limit access to gaming facilities may voluntarily enroll in the self-exclusion program. Exclusion periods offered are 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, or 5 years. Enrollment covers all gaming facilities operated by OLG in Ontario, not just Fallsview Casino Resort.
3.2 Registration Process
Registration for self-exclusion can be completed by contacting [email protected], calling 1-800-387-0098 for an appointment, or in person at the facility. Completion of required documents and identity verification is mandatory.
3.3 Enforcement Mechanisms
Facial recognition systems are in use at Niagara gaming facilities to identify self-excluded individuals entering the premises. Self-excluded persons are not permitted to enter any gaming facility during the exclusion term. All marketing communications are suspended for the duration of the exclusion.
3.4 Legal Consequences
Entry to a gaming facility by a self-excluded individual is treated as trespass and may result in removal, arrest, or prosecution under the Trespass to Property Act, RSO 1990. Winnings obtained by self-excluded individuals during the exclusion period are forfeited.
3.5 Reinstatement
Reinstatement is only allowed after the full exclusion period. Early reinstatement is not considered. After the exclusion period elapses, individuals may apply for reinstatement. Persons reinstated are not eligible for casino credit for two years following reinstatement.
4. PlaySmart Centre
4.1 Location and Services
The PlaySmart Centre is situated in the Galleria area, near the Ponte Vecchio restaurant. It provides information, resources, and access to staff trained in responsible gambling. Services include consultation on responsible play, self-exclusion information, and referral to external supports. The centre operates on behalf of OLG, managed by the Responsible Gambling Council.
4.2 Virtual Support
The Virtual PlaySmart Centre operates by telephone at 1-833-888-2306, daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Trained advisors provide confidential support and responsible gambling information.
5. Operational Controls
5.1 Financial Restrictions
The facility does not cash payroll, welfare, or unemployment cheques. Cash advances from credit cards are not available at slot machines or gaming tables. Patrons must use designated financial service areas for cash advances, separating financial transactions from gaming activity.
5.2 Credit Access Restrictions
Casino play, credit, cheque cashing, and promotional offers may be restricted where deemed appropriate. Self-excluded individuals and those within two years of reinstatement are not eligible for casino credit.
5.3 Alcohol Service
Alcohol service complies with AGCO regulations, and staff are trained to identify signs of intoxication. Service may be refused for patrons showing signs of impairment.
6. Educational Resources
6.1 Informational Materials
Responsible gambling information is available throughout the facility in multiple languages and formats. Gaming guides and rules of play are provided to inform patrons about game mechanics and odds. Interactive kiosks in PlaySmart areas allow patrons to learn about games without wagering.
6.2 Problem Gambling Definition
Problem gambling is defined as excessive gambling that negatively impacts finances, health, or relationships. Indicators include wagering money one cannot afford, excessive credit use, borrowing for gambling, chasing losses, neglecting obligations, or compromising personal values for gambling.
7. Staff Training and Responsibilities
7.1 Training Requirements
All staff receive ongoing training on responsible gambling principles, identifying problem gambling, providing information, and referral processes. Training covers game mechanics, self-exclusion, and available support resources.
7.2 Staff Obligations
Staff are required to prevent those under 19 from accessing gaming areas, provide responsible gambling information on request, and direct individuals to PlaySmart Centre resources. Staff are trained to identify potential problem gambling and provide appropriate assistance.
8. External Support Resources
8.1 Problem Gambling Support Services
ConnexOntario offers a confidential Problem Gambling Support line at 1-866-531-2600, with referral to treatment providers for patrons, relatives, and concerned individuals.
8.2 Responsible Gambling Council
The Responsible Gambling Council is an independent non-profit organization offering education, research, and harm reduction support relating to gambling. Information is available at responsiblegambling.org.
9. Compliance and Reporting
9.1 Regulatory Obligations
The facility maintains compliance with all requirements in the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming, including anti-money laundering, suspicious transaction reporting, and verification of source of funds. Non-compliance may result in penalties, license sanctions, or other actions by AGCO.
9.2 Incident Reporting
Suspicious transactions, suspected money laundering, and violations of responsible gambling procedures are reported to AGCO and on-site law enforcement in accordance with established protocols.
10. Contact Information
General inquiries: 1-888-325-5788 (7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Eastern Time)
Self-Exclusion: [email protected] or 1-800-387-0098
Virtual PlaySmart Centre: 1-833-888-2306
Problem Gambling Support: 1-866-531-2600
This policy may be amended according to regulatory requirements and operational standards established by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation.