State eyes sports betting kiosks
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The Massachusetts Gaming Commission wants to know if and how it can safely and profitably introduce sports betting machines at retailers.
As Massachusetts looks to roll out sports betting, the Gaming Commission is looking for data-driven and evidence-based recommendations to determine the feasibility of allowing retailers to install sports wagering kiosks.
The betting kiosks are free-standing devices that would allow various retailers to offer sports betting without having to hire and train additional staff. The self-service machines operate 24/7, allowing users to legally place bets, access handicapping services, obtain sports information and view locally advertised promotions. They accept cash, winning tickets and vouchers and include tools for compliance with currency transaction reports and book wagering reports, according to a Jan. 9 request for response.
The 2022 Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act requires the commission to conduct research on the social and economic impact of sports betting on communities. The legislation calls for the collection of neuroscience, psychology, sociology and epidemiology data to help the agency understand the social and economic effects of expanding gaming, the solicitation said.
Massachusetts wants a contractor to research the feasibility and potential effect of permitting sports gambling kiosks at retail locations. Applicants should provide research on which types of retail settings are best suited to host sports betting kiosks, their effect on different populations such as nearby minority communities and hospitality businesses, what crime risks can be expected from cash transactions and how problem gambling might be prevented.
Officials also want insights into how the kiosks might impact lottery ticket sales, black market sports betting and the costs associated with regulating and monitoring the kiosks.
The final report should include findings and recommendations for retail sports betting kiosks “that will maximize benefits and minimize consequences, including ways to understand and incorporate diversity, equity and inclusion considerations for retailers, consumers, and communities,” according to the RFR. The initial 16-month contract has an optional renewal for one year.
Proposals are due Feb. 28.
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