Connecticut allows residents to exclude themselves from gambling ahead of sports betting launch date – MassLive.com

The state of Connecticut has launched a new online portal that will allow people to voluntarily exclude themselves from being able to gamble.

The website, which is already active, comes as legalized sports betting is scheduled to be up and running on Oct. 7 in Connecticut and available both online and at establishments around the state, including the two tribal casinos and 10 Sportech locations.

While this may be a form of entertainment many people can enjoy, for others it can be a harmful addiction. The ability to voluntarily exclude yourself from these activities is one of the many tools available to help, said Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle Seagull in a statement.

People can choose to be added to the states Gaming Self-Exclusion List for one year, five years or for their lifetime. Names will remain on the list until someone requests to be removed. The website warns that gambling licensees may ban individuals on the list from land-based properties as well as all of their online gambling, online sportsbooks, and any fantasy sports contests, including those located in other states.

The website also warns that individuals on the list could forfeit any rewards points they may have earned in Connecticut and elsewhere.

In the problem gambling community, self-exclusion is an essential step in helping people who are addicted, Diana Goode, executive director of the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, said in a statement. By creating a barrier from participating, it allows those in recovery a much-needed respite from triggers and reduces the likelihood of relapse.

Both Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun, which will begin offering sports betting and fantasy sports next month, have allowed people to self-exclude themselves from the tribal properties for years.

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Connecticut allows residents to exclude themselves from gambling ahead of sports betting launch date - MassLive.com