VOLUNTARY SELF-EXCLUSION

The MA Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program can be a helpful
resource if you’re struggling with a gambling problem.

VOLUNTARY SELF-EXCLUSION

The MA Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program can be a helpful
resource if you’re struggling with a gambling problem.

GAM-Line
1-800-GAM-1234

24 HOURS / 7 DAYS SUPPORT

WHAT IS IT?

Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) is a statewide program that allows you to voluntarily exclude yourself from casino gambling, sports wagering, or both. By enrolling in the program, you agree to forfeit or suspend all rewards points and will automatically be removed from marketing lists.

WHAT HAPPENS ONCE I’M VOLUNTARILY SELF-EXCLUDED?

If you enrolled in the Gaming VSE: During the period of your exclusion, you are not allowed to enter the gaming area of any Massachusetts casino. To reduce the temptation to return to the gaming area, all reward points will be forfeited or suspended, and players cards and all direct marketing materials suspended. An excluded person identified within the gaming area will be escorted from the area and must forfeit any money or thing of value that has been converted to a wagering instrument, including things like casino-issued chips, tokens, prizes, non-complimentary pay vouchers, electronic credits on a slot machine, and vouchers representing electronic credits/TITO slips. Losses cannot be reclaimed.

If you enrolled in Sports Wagering VSE: During the period of your exclusion, you will not be able to place a wager at any of the Massachusetts retail and mobile licensees, including casinos, brick and mortar sportsbooks, or on any of the Massachusetts-licensed sports wagering online platforms.

If you enrolled in Gaming and Sports Wagering VSE: During the time of exclusion, both of the above paragraphs will apply.

FROM WHICH PROPERTIES AND/OR SPORTS WAGERING PLATFORMS AM I EXCLUDED?

Depending on the VSE Program you enroll in, the terms apply to all casinos and sports wagering operators licensed by the MGC, regardless of whether or not they are operational at the time of enrollment. Casino operators and sports wagering operators reserve the right to share Massachusetts VSE participants with all of their properties and/or online platforms, including those outside of Massachusetts.

HOW LONG WILL I BE SELF-EXCLUDED?

That’s up to you. You can choose a term from one year to a lifetime. And if you want to extend the duration, you can do so at any time. The one thing you can’t do is reduce the time once you’ve signed on.

CAN I GO TO OTHER AREAS OF THE CASINO BESIDES THE GAMING FLOOR?

Yes. You’re allowed to be inside the casino, just not on the gaming floor or any area where pari-mutuel or simulcasting wagers are placed.

AM I ALLOWED TO PLAY THE LOTTERY IF I AM VOLUNTARILY SELF-EXCLUDED?

Yes. Enrollment into the Massachusetts Voluntary Self-Exclusion program does not prohibit you from playing the lottery or collecting any lottery-related winnings.

HOW DO I ENROLL?

By phone: Calling the 24-hour GAM Line at 1-800-GAM-1234.

Online chat: Chat via the GameSense website, available 24 hours a day.

In-person: To schedule an appointment to enroll in the Massachusetts Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program, please contact the Massachusetts Gaming Commission at vse@massgaming.gov or the GAM line at 1-800-GAM-1234. Alternatively, you may visit any GameSense Info Center during casino operating hours without an appointment. GameSense Info Centers are located in the Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor. Other ways to enroll are:

  • Community-based Enrollment

Our network of designated agents is made up of treatment providers and counselors who are trained in Massachusetts Voluntary Self Exclusion enrollment. Please click here to access the designated agent list.

  • Remote Enrollment

Remote enrollment may be utilized by anyone who is unable or uncomfortable enrolling in person at any of the above locations. A computer or mobile device with email access and video capabilities is required for this option. The enrollment form will be shared at the time of enrollment and may not be completed in advance.

CAN I EMAIL OR MAIL IN MY REMOTE ENROLLMENT FORM?

No. Forms can only be accepted during in-person enrollments or remote enrollments.

CAN I ENROLL A FRIEND OR LOVED ONE INTO THE PROGRAM?

No. Enrollment may only be completed by the individual who is enrolling into the program. If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling and needs support, please call 1-800-327-5050 or visit www.mahelpline.org/problemgambling to speak with a trained specialist. The helpline is available 24/7, is free, confidential, and available in multiple languages.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY SELF-EXCLUSION ENDS?

You’ll have to participate in a reinstatement session before being allowed to return to a gaming floor. The goal of the session is to arm you with safe gambling tips and give you all the support you need to take control.

DO I REALLY HAVE TO COMPLETE A REINSTATEMENT SESSION?

Yes. The point is not to determine whether or not you will be allowed to gamble again, but to help you get back in the game with a plan to keep it fun.

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A REINSTATEMENT SESSION?

Just go to the GameSense Info Center at Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield or Encore Boston Harbor. All sessions will be conducted in person. You may also participate in a reinstatement session at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission Office in Boston, and can schedule this appointment by calling 617-533-9737 or by emailing vse@massgaming.gov

HOW WILL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION BE PROTECTED?

We take privacy very seriously and protect your sensitive information using strict security procedures. Under no circumstances will your information be shared with a family member, employer or clinician. Rest assured, you have our complete confidence.

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