PHOENIX – In less than a week, the San Francisco 49ers will face off against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LVIII at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Super Bowl is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year and is one of the most popular events to wager on. The Arizona Department of Gaming asks that if you choose to wager, please do so legally and responsibly.
“The Arizona Department of Gaming wants all Arizonans to enjoy the Super Bowl,” said Jackie Johnson, ADG CEO. “However, it is crucial to remind those interested in a friendly wager to do so carefully to ensure gambling is both fun and legal.”
Sports Pools – Know What Rules to Follow
In the United States, it is common to see friends and family participate in sports pools for the Super Bowl, often known as “Super Bowl Squares”. These pools are legal as long as the state’s social gambling rules are followed. According to Arizona Law (A.R.S. § 13-3301(7)), social gambling requires:
- That gambling cannot be conducted as business, which means that hosts cannot receive financial benefit, unless they are participating in the game;
- Hosts pay out all pool money to the winner(s);
- Only participants can win; and
- Players compete on equal terms with each other.
A few things to be on the lookout for that indicate illegal gambling:
- Paying a fee to participate, including “suggested” or “voluntary” donations.
- A host who keeps a percentage of the pool for administering the game.
- A required minimum purchase to participate (food or beverage, etc.).
- Unequal odds.
- Underage participants (under 21 years of age).
ADG takes complaints about illegal gambling seriously. To report suspected illegal gambling activity, visit their website or call 602-255-3886. You can remain anonymous.
Responsible Betting – What to Keep in Mind
With sports betting legal in the state, it has become increasingly important to educate yourself on how you can bet responsibly. Listed below are some helpful tips as part of the American Gaming Association’s Have A Game Plan.® Bet Responsibly.™ campaign:
- Set a Budget – It is crucial to keep in mind that everyone will have different budgets; never bet beyond your own means. Be cautious and make sure you set a limit – and stick to it – if you plan on wagering. More information on how to responsibly set a budget for wagering: HERE.
- Know the Odds – There are plenty of key terms everyone should know when making a sports bet. What’s a parlay? Over/under? Moneyline? If you decide to wager, make sure you are briefed on the basics of sports betting.
- Keep it Social – Whenever gambling, be mindful that all forms of gambling are for the purpose of entertainment. This is not a way to make money. By gaming with friends, family, and colleagues, you can keep playing responsibly and have fun.
- Use Legal Sportsbooks – Legal operators provide important player protections that are not found in the illegal market. Whether you are placing a wager on your phone or at a physical sportsbook, make sure you are using a legal operator in the state. Visit the ADG website to view a list of the state’s approved operators and retail locations: HERE.
You can view more information on how to bet responsibly by visiting haveagameplan.org.
Are you or a loved one impacted by a problem with gambling? Take the next step and access the state’s
24-hour confidential helpline by calling 1-800-NEXTSTEP, texting NEXTSTEP to 53342, or visiting
problemgambling.az.gov.
