Archive for category: Blog

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From Bingo Halls To Major Economic Engines: The Evolution Of Tribal Gaming

For decades, gaming has played a transformative role in Tribal communities across the United States. What began as small operations evolved into a multibillion-dollar industry that supports housing, healthcare, education and infrastructure for many Tribal nations. 

Today, Tribal casinos are among the most influential forces in the gaming industry, generating revenue that supports long-term Tribal economic development and creates jobs in both Native and non-Native communities. Understanding the evolution of Tribal gaming offers insight into how the industry became a major economic engine nationwide.

Early Tribal Gaming History

During the 1970s and 1980s, many Tribal nations operated modest bingo halls and card rooms as a way to generate independent revenue. These operations provided communities with an opportunity to strengthen self-sufficiency while navigating limited economic resources.

Several Tribal governments expanded their bingo operations after state laws allowed charitable gaming activities. This led to legal challenges between Tribal nations and states that shaped the future of the industry. The passage of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) in 1988 became one of the defining moments in Tribal gaming history. The legislation established a framework for regulating Tribal gaming while reaffirming Tribal sovereignty and establishing a framework for federally recognized Tribal Nations to operate gaming facilities on Tribal lands.

Evolution Of Tribal Gaming: Tribal Casino Growth And The Igra Impact

Tribal gaming evolved rapidly after the IGRA created clearer regulatory standards. Tribal nations began developing larger casinos, hotels, entertainment venues and resort destinations that could compete with commercial gaming operators. Some key impacts of the IGRA included:

  1. Strengthening Tribal sovereignty through gaming regulation
  2. Creating oversight systems for fair and secure operations
  3. Gaining self-governance, economic development and land control through gaming revenue to improve public services, such as schools, emergency services and health care

The growth of Tribal gaming also created employment opportunities. Tribal casinos now support hundreds of thousands of jobs in hospitality, entertainment, finance, food service and tourism. In many regions, Tribal gaming facilities serve as major economic anchors that attract visitors and stimulate surrounding local businesses.

Tribal Economic Development: A National Economic Force

While the scale and scope of gaming operations vary widely among Tribal Nations, gaming continues to provide many communities with opportunities for economic development, self-governance, and investments in community wellbeing. Many Tribal enterprises now include luxury resorts, concert venues, golf courses, restaurants and retail centers that contribute to regional tourism economies. Tribal nations have also diversified their investments into sectors such as renewable energy, construction, technology and real estate, using gaming revenue to support broader economic stability. 

At the same time, conversations surrounding responsible gaming have become more important throughout the gaming industry. Increasingly, Tribal Nations are looking beyond treatment alone and investing in prevention-focused approaches that help communities understand player behavior and address potential concerns before harm occurs.

Exploring The Need For Responsible Gaming Research

Responsible gaming research plays a critical role in helping operators, policymakers and Tribal communities make well-informed decisions that prioritize player wellbeing alongside economic growth. Organizations like the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) fund independent scientific studies that examine gambling behaviors, prevention strategies and treatment approaches. Through evidence-based research, ICRG helps educate the public on safer and more responsible forms of gambling while working to reduce stigma for those experiencing problem gambling.

To learn more about our unbiased, peer-reviewed research, visit icrg.org.

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Sports Betting Trends And How Tribes Are Shaping The Future Of The Industry

Sports betting has rapidly transformed the gaming landscape in the United States. Tribal Nations have emerged as major leaders in this evolving space, using their longstanding expertise in gaming operations to protect Tribal sovereignty, support community priorities, and adapt to changing consumer habits and technology. As more states expand legalized wagering, Tribal communities are finding new ways to balance economic opportunity with responsible gaming initiatives.

Tribal gaming has long served as an important source of economic development for Native communities. However, for many Tribal Nations, decisions surrounding sports betting are not solely about revenue. They are also about protecting community wellness and ensuring opportunities remain sustainable for future generations. The growth of online sports betting has also sparked conversations about public education, consumer protection and the role of Tribal governments in shaping the future of the industry. 

Understanding Tribal Sports Betting Trends

Gaming preferences and player expectations have evolved dramatically over the last several years, and Tribal leaders have taken notice. With the continued rise of legalized sports wagering, bettors increasingly expect fast, convenient and mobile-friendly experiences that allow them to engage in gambling from virtually anywhere. In response, Tribal leaders are adapting to new market conditions by:

  1. Expanding into the sports betting market to compete with new forms of gaming
  2. Securing exclusive rights to offer sports betting in their states 
  3. Advocating for regulatory frameworks that protect Tribal gaming exclusivity agreements and ensure emerging prediction-style betting markets do not undermine Tribal gaming rights.


With these investments in mobile sports betting, Tribal Nations can maintain secure and regulated gaming environments while continuing to support economic development, community priorities, and long-term sustainability.

The Role Of Tribal Sportsbook Partnerships In Industry Growth

Strategic Tribal sportsbook partnerships are becoming increasingly common throughout the gaming industry. By partnering with experienced sportsbook technology providers, tribes can expand their offerings while maintaining Tribal control over gaming operations and supporting Tribal sovereignty.


These collaborations often provide tribes with access to:

  1. Advanced betting technology 
  2. Risk management services 
  3. Mobile platform development 
  4. Data analytics and customer insights 
  5. Marketing and promotional support 


Such partnerships allow Tribal gaming operators to compete in an increasingly crowded market while continuing to deliver unique entertainment experiences rooted in Tribal hospitality and community values.

Tribal Sports Betting Regulation Efforts

With the expansion of legalized sports wagering, Tribal Nations that operate sports betting programs will continue working with lawmakers and gaming commissions to establish fair and sustainable frameworks for the industry. Tribal governments remain highly involved in conversations surrounding licensing, taxation, consumer protection and oversight. As sports betting expands, many Tribal Nations are also exploring prevention-focused responsible gaming initiatives designed to support player wellness, reduce stigma, and better understand gambling behaviors before problems occur.

Responsible Gaming Research And The Future Of Tribal Sports Betting

Equally important is the growing emphasis on responsible gaming education, prevention, and research. The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) funds independent research that helps Tribal Nations, regulators, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and gaming operators better understand gambling behavior, prevention strategies, and emerging trends. This research supports informed decision-making while helping create healthier gaming environments and reducing stigma surrounding gambling-related harm.

To learn more about our unbiased, peer-reviewed research, visit icrg.org.

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CAN PROBLEM GAMBLING COEXIST WITH OTHER MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES?

Gambling-related harm often occurs alongside other mental health conditions, reflecting a broader pattern of co-occurring disorders, or what clinicians refer to as comorbidity. Understanding this link between gambling and mental health is vital because the presence of one disorder can often mask, exacerbate, or even trigger the other.

The Hard Truth About Gambling And Mental Health

Gambling disorder and broader patterns of problematic gambling behavior are characterized by difficulty limiting time or money spent on gambling, which may lead to negative personal or social outcomes. Individuals experiencing gambling-related difficulties may: 

  • Rapidly increase the amount of money they spend on bets
  • Become restless when they stop betting
  • Are often preoccupied with the thought of gambling

The expansion of online sports betting has increased accessibility, which may contribute to higher exposure and, for some individuals, increased risk of developing gambling-related difficulties.

Common Co-Occurring Disorders Of Problem Gambling

Problem gambling is often not the only behavioral challenge players can face. Research indicates that gambling disorder is one of the most comorbid conditions in psychiatry. Data from the National Comorbidity Study suggests that up to 96% of individuals with a gambling disorder meet the criteria for at least one other lifetime psychiatric disorder, and more than 60% report with three or more. 

Some of the most common-occurring disorders of problem gambling include:

  • Mood Disorders: Major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder are highly prevalent co-occurring disorders of problem gambling, with some studies showing nearly 50% of disordered gamblers reporting a mood disorder. Social isolation, impulse control and a feeling of hopelessness are common in those who experience these conditions. Recent ICRG-funded studies on young adults aged 18–25, have shown that problem sports betting is strongly correlated with elevated levels of loneliness, stress, and lower life satisfaction.
  • Anxiety Disorders: Generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety and panic disorder are also common comorbid mental health conditions associated with problem gambling. Some individuals may engage in gambling as a way of coping with anxiety. While short-term relief may be experienced, this pattern can, for some, contribute to repeated engagement that reinforces both anxiety and gambling behavior.
  • Substance Abuse Disorders: Alcohol and drug use are the most common companions to problem gambling. They often arise as a result of problem gambling, as players seek ways to manage their stress or emotions. Substance use and gambling behaviors often co-occur, with each potentially reinforcing the other in ways that can increase overall risk.
  • Personality Disorders: Certain personality traits, such as impulsivity or difficulties with emotional regulation, have been associated with increased vulnerability to gambling-related harm.

The Importance Of Sports Betting-Related Mental Health Research

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has been at the forefront of identifying how these associations manifest, specifically within the rapidly growing sector of sports wagering. 

According to a 2026 study published in Addictive Behaviors, depression and anxiety are significantly related to problem sports betting. The research identified coping methods among participants, such as using betting as a form of self-medication to deal with negative emotion, escape the numbing effects of depression or quiet the high-frequency noise of anxiety. Some participants reported using betting as a way to manage negative emotional states, with short-term reinforcement potentially contributing to continued engagement.

Further sports betting studies reveal young adults who exhibit symptoms of problem gambling also score high on indices of mental health symptomology. However, this emerging area of public health interest has been largely unexplored due to a lack of research and funding, putting the greater population at risk. Fortunately, the International Center for Responsible Gaming is closing this gap. As a leading funder of independent, peer-reviewed research on gambling and its impacts, ICRG is shaping policy and driving progress for the gaming industry and those affected. To learn more about the unbiased, peer-reviewed research we fund, visit icrg.org.

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UNDERSTANDING RISK FACTORS ACROSS SPORTS BETTING AND CASINO GAMBLING

From poker chips to betting apps, the public image of gambling is rapidly changing. In recent years, online sports betting has skyrocketed in popularity, allowing adults both young and old to bet on everything from professional football games to table tennis tournaments right from the palm of their hand. The growing prevalence of sports betting has many speculating that online gambling may be associated with distinct risk factors that are still being actively studied.

Recent casino gambling comparison research funded by the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) suggests that sports betting in its modern, mobile form can present unique risk factors that lead to higher rates of problematic behavior compared to traditional, in-person casino gambling. 

What Makes Sports Betting Unique

Since becoming legalized in 2018, the sports betting industry has seen exponential growth, with total wagers going from $4.9 billion in 2017 to $121.1 billion in 2023. This has also coincided with increased reports of problem gambling. The percentage of internet searches for help with problem gambling has risen at nearly the same rate during the same time period, with searches surging 61% since its legalization.

Some sports betting studies suggest that the prevalence of gambling-related problems may be higher among individuals who bet on sports in mobile environments. For example, while about 1-2% of the general population may meet the criteria for a gambling disorder, that number can climb to 16% for those who primarily engage in online sports betting.

Sports Betting Vs. Casino Gambling Comparison

The primary driver behind the rising concern over sports betting is not just the act of wagering, but the psychology of skill. When evaluating the behaviors of traditional casino gamblers versus online sports bettors, it’s important to compare the differences and similarities between the two. Factors that may influence addictiveness include:

  • Illusion of Control: Casino games (like slots or roulette) are widely recognized as games of pure chance. Conversely, sports bettors often believe their knowledge of a team, player stats, or weather conditions gives them an edge. The illusion of control may influence decision-making and perceptions of risk, fueling the urge to chase losses.
  • Accessibility: Increased accessibility, including 24/7 mobile availability, may contribute to more frequent engagement and reduced natural breaks between betting opportunities. Traditionally, a casino provided a physical barrier to entry, as most casinos are restricted to small geographic areas that require travel. In contrast, sports betting is available 24/7 on a smartphone. This allows players to easily integrate gambling into their daily routine from the comfort of their homes. 
  • Frequency: Features like “in-play” or “micro-betting” (betting on the next play, pitch, or point) increase event frequency, which may reduce time between decisions and influence impulsive behavior for some users.
  • Socialization: In traditional casino gambling, gamblers interact face-to-face, leading to a social aspect that can occasionally distract from the games and bets. Online sports betting shifts the social context of gambling, with less in-person interaction and greater individual engagement.

Emerging Risks Considerations For Sports Betting

Research funded by the ICRG has also identified a strong correlation between frequent sports betting and other addictive behaviors. A 2025 study highlighted that sports bettors are more likely to experience co-occurring issues, particularly hazardous alcohol use and high levels of stress or anxiety. Because sports betting is often viewed as a social, competitive hobby, the transition from fan to problem gambler can be harder to spot than in a traditional casino setting.

The Importance Of Funding Sports Betting Research

The rise of sports betting is creating a growing and evolving population of sports bettors whose behaviors and risk profiles are not yet fully understood. However, this populace has largely been unexplored due to a lack of research and funding. To bridge the gap in understanding sports betting, the International Center for Responsible Gaming supports research to better understand these patterns and inform evidence-based prevention and intervention strategies. 

To learn more about our research, visit icrg.org.

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ICRG Names Eileen Moore Johnson New Board Chair

Board Member and Industry leader appointed as Chair of the International Center of Responsible Gaming’s Board of Directors

[LAS VEGAS, NV] — [August 26, 2025] — The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to scientific research and education on gambling disorder and responsible gambling, announces the appointment of Eileen Moore Johnson as the new Chair of its Board of Directors.

With over 30 years of leadership experience in executive and operational areas of hospitality, casino gaming, and destination transportation, Eileen displays a notable interest in advancing responsible gaming practices through research driven education on problem gambling. She succeeds ICRG’s, now President, Michael Soll, continuing the organization’s mission to support evidence-based research and provide independent, peer-reviewed resources for policymakers, industry leaders, clinicians, and the public.

A Demonstrated Leader in Gaming and Hospitality

Most recently, Eileen served as General Manager and Strategic Advisor to The Boring Company’s Vegas Loop, where she helped guide the development and expansion of the first all-electric, zero-emissions underground public transportation system. 

Preceding her role at The Boring Company, she was the Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for Scientific Games Corporation/Light & Wonder, where she was responsible for global human resources, sustainability, philanthropy, responsible gaming, and DEI initiatives.

Eileen also had a two-decade-long career in corporate strategy and operations at Caesars Entertainment, where she grew to Regional President, supervising four major Las Vegas Strip resorts. Her dedication to promoting responsible gaming throughout her career has been significant through her long participation and leadership of multiple properties and Responsible Gaming Committees.  

Commitment to Responsible Gaming and Community Service

Eileen is a sustained presence in the promotion of responsible gaming, demonstrated by her service on the ICRG Executive Committee, as a Founding Board Member of Global Gaming Women, and as a strategic advisor to boards in hospitality, technology, and e-commerce. 

Currently serving on the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Hospitality Dean’s Advisory Board, Eileen also plays a significant role in the progression of social impact initiatives in higher education. Formerly, she held board positions with the University of Houston, University of Indiana Southeast, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Kentucky Science Center .

Advancing ICRG’s Mission

“The ICRG has significantly increased and diversified its research funding in recent years, and I am proud to help continue that mission,” said Moore Johnson. “I am honored to serve as Chair of the ICRG Board and to advance the belief that science drives best practices in policy, prevention, and treatment.”

Michael Soll, ICRG President, added: “Eileen’s remarkable leadership experience, diverse industry knowledge, and commitment to responsible gaming will help steer ICRG into our next chapter of growth and impact.”

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About the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG)

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), founded in 1996, continues to serve as the only funding source for scientific research on gambling disorder and responsible gambling in the United States. It is recognized as a global leader on these topics and has yielded nearly 500 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. For more information, visit www.icrg.org.

Media Contact:

Noelle Mancini
Operations and Marketing Manager
[email protected] | 978.338.6610

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Michael Soll Named Next President of ICRG

JUNE 18, 2025

Michael Soll Named Next President of ICRG
Board member and gaming industry research veteran to lead organization beginning July 7

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) today announced the appointment of Michael Soll as president beginning July 7. Soll succeeds Arthur Paikowsky who is credited with facilitating significant growth in high quality, peer-reviewed research at ICRG, transforming its ability to mitigate player harms and creating a more sustainable environment for the gaming industry. Paikowsky will join the ICRG board of directors and remain a valuable voice in the organization’s future. 

Soll has served on the ICRG board of directors since 2022 and brings nearly 30 years of gaming industry experience to the organization. Most recently, he has served as president of The Innovation Group (TIG), a premier research and advisory firm serving the global gaming, entertainment, and hospitality industries. Soll’s experience in gaming is matched by two decades of philanthropic leadership, where he has served actively as a board member, fundraiser and day-to-day administrator.

Soll began his career as a city planner and social policy analyst. His focus shifted to finance and hospitality after directing asset management at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, then serving as vice president, gaming and leisure equity research, at Bear Stearns & Co. Prior to joining TIG in 2008, he held planning and development roles at Hard Rock International and Caesars Entertainment, working in emerging U.S. commercial, tribal and international gaming jurisdictions. Soll was named one of “25 People to Watch” by Global Gaming Business magazine in 2019.

“Michael’s background makes him a particularly astute choice to lead the ICRG at this moment,” said Mark Lipparelli, ICRG Chair Emeritus. “The Innovation Group is perhaps best known for its rigorous industry research measuring the economic and social outcomes of gambling. The appointment of a gaming research expert like Michael gives us decades of first-hand experience balancing stakeholder interests with research integrity and quality. It really puts a point on the current needs of the organization.”

“I am honored and privileged to begin leading the ICRG, whose mission I became passionate about while serving its board of directors,” said Soll. “During his tenure, Art and team have instituted transformational changes that create a sustainable future for the organization – I’m excited to build upon Art’s work and help drive significant, high-quality research with actionable results.”


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About ICRG
The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), founded in 1996, continues to serve as the only funding source for scientific research on gambling disorder and responsible gambling in the United States. It is recognized as a global leader on these topics and has yielded nearly 500 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Contact
Noelle Mancini
[email protected]
978.38.6110

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NFL Partners with ICRG to Advance Research on Gambling Behaviors Among College Athletes and Students

In Addition to Research, the Partnership will Provide Funding from the NFL Foundation for Educational Resources to Help Prevent Youth Gambling Exposure 

NEW YORK – June 4, 2025 – The National Football League (NFL) today announced a partnership with the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) to address growing concerns around gambling behaviors among college athletes and students. The NFL Foundation will contribute $600,000 over three years to support independent, peer-reviewed research being led by the ICRG that aims to explore the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of gambling behaviors in these populations. 

While initial studies have indicated that college athletes may be at higher risk for gambling problems, there remains a lack of comprehensive, current data on how college populations interact with online sports betting platforms. This NFL-ICRG initiative will empower independent researchers to explore a wide range of topics with the goal of informing data-driven prevention strategies, education, and policies aimed at reducing gambling-related harm. Grant applications will be peer-reviewed prior to the selection of the final recipient by the ICRG Independent Scientific Advisory Board.

Additionally, the NFL will fund an update to the ICRG’s “Talking with Children About Gambling” educational resources to equip parents, coaches, and educators with practical guidance to help prevent youth gambling exposure before college. Educational materials will be widely available online and distributed to schools, community sports organizations, and youth programs nationwide.

“We’re proud to partner with the ICRG to advance research that can drive meaningful solutions and address a critical gap in the understanding of gambling behaviors among college athletes and students,” said Anna Isaacson, NFL senior vice president of social responsibility. “This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to promoting responsible gambling and fostering a safe and supportive environment for athletes, fans, and communities.”

“The NFL has once again demonstrated its commitment to player and fan protection by supporting this critical research targeting young adults,” said Arthur Paikowsky, President of ICRG. “The NFL and ICRG together will make a meaningful contribution to understanding and implementing policies and programs that support a safer gambling environment.”

Strengthening the NFL’s Commitment to Responsible Gambling

The ICRG partnership builds on the NFL’s ongoing efforts to promote responsible gambling, complementing existing initiatives with organizations like the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC). 

Through these partnerships, the NFL continues to demonstrate its commitment to addressing emerging challenges in the ever-evolving sports betting landscape and to providing fans, athletes and communities with the tools and resources they need to engage responsibly.

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Media Contacts:

Alex Riethmiller, NFL, [email protected]
Arthur Paikowsky, ICRG, [email protected]

About the International Center for Responsible Gaming

The ICRG, for nearly 30 years, has been the leader in funding peer reviewed evidence-based scientific research to better understand gambling disorder and gambling problems.  Our goal is to provide tools to the gambling industry to mitigate harm to players and to support responsible gambling practices.  Funded research has been published over 500 times in some of the most prestigious journals in the world and research is being conducted in many countries across the globe.  For more information, visit www.icrg.org. 

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New Study Reveals Link Between Sports Gambling and Alcohol-Related Risks

The relationship between gambling and alcohol consumption has long been a topic of concern in public health and addiction research. A new study, published in JAMA Psychiatry and funded by the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), provides compelling evidence of the connection between sports gambling frequency and alcohol-related problems over time.

Key Findings: Gambling and Alcohol-Related Risks

The study, which followed over 4,300 U.S. adults for two years, found that fluctuations in sports gambling frequency were closely tied to changes in alcohol-related harms. While alcohol-related problems slightly declined overall, individuals who frequently engaged in sports betting were more likely to experience drinking-related issues.

Dr. Joshua B. Grubbs of the University of New Mexico, the study’s lead researcher, emphasized the significance of these findings:

“These results highlight the need for screening and intervention strategies targeting sports gamblers who also drink. The interaction between these behaviors may increase the risks associated with both.”

Given the rapid expansion of legal sports betting in the U.S., this study underscores the need for proactive harm-reduction strategies to protect consumers from potential co-occurring risks.

ICRG’s Commitment to Research and Responsible Gambling

As the largest independent funder of gambling research in the U.S., ICRG has played a pivotal role in advancing knowledge on gambling behaviors, addiction risks, and responsible gambling strategies. This latest study builds on prior ICRG-supported research, including:

  • Sports bettors face higher risks of addiction compared to other gambling groups, with a strong link to binge drinking (JAMA Network Open, 2024).
  • Impulsivity is a key predictor of high-risk gambling behaviors, reinforcing the need for tailored interventions (Addictive Behaviors, 2024).
  • Not all sports betting carries the same level of risk, highlighting the importance of customized responsible gambling strategies (Journal of Gambling Studies, 2024).
  • Marginalized communities require culturally sensitive harm-reduction efforts to address unique gambling challenges (Addictive Behaviors, 2023).

Recognizing Our Research and Funding Partners

Groundbreaking research like this is only possible with the support of our dedicated funding partners. We extend our gratitude to:

🎰 American Gaming Association
🏆 MGM Resorts International
📱 DraftKings
🏇 William Hill/US Caesars Entertainment
🎲 Entain
🏎️ NASCAR
🎸 Hard Rock International
⛳ The PGA
🎮 IGT

Their commitment to responsible gambling and evidence-based solutions helps advance research that informs industry best practices and public policy.

What’s Next?

This study is part of an ongoing effort to assess gambling behaviors over time, with additional research from this dataset currently under peer review. As sports gambling continues to expand, it is crucial that research-driven insights inform responsible gambling initiatives, public health policies, and industry best practices.

At ICRG, we remain committed to funding rigorous, independent research to promote safer gambling environments and evidence-based solutions.

📖 Read the full study and learn more about our work at JAMA Network.

JAMA Network

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Gambling Disorder Screening Day

The 11th Annual Gambling Disorder Screening Day is Tuesday, March 11. Did you know that worldwide, less than 10% of people experiencing Gambling Disorder seek treatment for it? Screening is a low-cost way to raise awareness and help people learn when their gambling has crossed a line. To get more people thinking about their relationship with gambling, you can share the 3-question Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen.

Click here to learn more!

If you would like BBGS magnets, please email [email protected]!

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