For a long time, the national government has frowned upon gambling. Part of the nation’s Criminal Code outlaws gambling and all things to do with gambling. However, the code’s provisions make it lawful for provinces to conduct and manage gaming activities, so gambling services are legal if the provider has a license from a provincial authority such as a provincial gaming commission or lottery corporation.
Services can include sports betting, online casino gaming, and offline forms such as racetrack betting and slot gaming at slot parlors. This post looks at the impact of industry events on gambling regulation in Canada, how news stories influence policies and public opinion about gambling, and what the future of gambling could look like in Canada.
The impact of gambling industry news on regulatory policies
The gambling industry is a fast-moving one that witnesses lots of developments. Industry news covers lots of aspects, such as technology advancements and information, changes in the industry, changes in regulations or introduction of new laws, enforcement of laws, financial performance, new casinos, and more.
Events in the news can trigger policy changes. Single-event sports betting risks have prompted the government to legalize betting on sports events, both responding to public demand and to a need to protect the public.
Press coverage also fosters support for lobby groups and advocacy organizations, who push for changes in regulation or for other actions from governments. After receiving public and political support following news stories, some organizations have campaigned successfully for increased regulation to protect players.
There are concerns, however, that media pressure can force governments to create and implement policies too hastily. Bodies such as the Canada Gaming Association have suggested governments should study the evidence longer to be sure policies address the issues raised.
Influencing public opinion
It almost goes without saying that news stories from the gambling industry can shape public perceptions about gambling. Stories about profits or entertainment can create positive perspectives of gambling, whereas stories about regulatory failures or other negative events can lead the public to become more wary or pessimistic about gambling.
How the media reports stories plays a big part in how the public forms their opinions. Fair, unbiased reporting allows people to form an informed, accurate judgment, whereas biased reporting can encourage them to develop a more skewered, inaccurate perspective.
Competition in the industry
One thing that regulators don’t have to worry about, but gambling operators do is competition in the industry, especially online. The accessibility the internet has created to online gambling services has generated fierce competition between providers, as more and more casinos begin offering gaming services online.
One way they try to attract players is to run promotions and offers. Often, these give players a chance to enjoy casino games without risking any of their own money. It’s a common approach in the industry. A quick search for the top online casino bonuses in Canada will show you just how common it is.
The power of positive stories from the industry
One of the most proactive provinces, when it comes to regulating online gambling, has been Ontario. US states that are more receptive to gambling, such as New Jersey, have been enjoying significant spoils, the casinos having generated record sums of money that the state then helps itself to a slice of in taxation. For 2023-24, the province raked in $790 million from the online gambling industry, including taxes.
Stories like this won’t have escaped the province’s notice and will have a helping hand in making up lawmakers’ minds. Canadians have proven they have a large appetite for gaming, so protection of players is one of the issues on the mind of lawmakers. Regulation is a way to do this.
The future of gambling in Canada
Demand for online gambling is sure to grow in Canada. Ontario isn’t the only province to have government-regulated gaming websites: British Columbia and Alberta have also realized the benefits regulation can offer them. Tech is sure to fuel growth, as more and more online casinos incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into their operations to provide more personalized, more engaging experiences.
Ontario is a trendsetter in terms of gambling regulation in Canada, but it’s not done yet. Authorities are looking to protect players further by challenging legislation that allows players from other provinces or even from abroad to use the international websites of Ontario-regulated companies. They’re looking to give players the most certainty possible by clearing up whether players should be able to do this or not.
Canada is gradually opening itself up to gambling of different forms. The media and public opinion exert a powerful influence on whether provincial governments choose to adopt policies and how fast they adopt them. The governments must be careful to study research carefully and then craft and implement policies that best achieve their goals.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is for entertainment purposes only. Online gambling carries risks, so you should only play within your means. If you’re struggling with a gambling addiction, reach out for help from a professional at the National Gambling Helpline through this phone line: 1-626-960-3500. All gambling websites and guides on this website are 18+. Check your local laws to ensure online gambling is legal in your area. Not valid in Ontario.
Check these websites for free gambling addiction resources.
https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/
https://www.cprg.ca/
https://www.responsiblegambling.org/
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