Starting from Monday, June 26, 2023, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation will require guests of its casino properties to present a photo ID to gain entry. This change was announced several weeks ago and it aims to raise awareness and help individuals who experience gambling addictions, while also enhancing its player protection program GameSense.
Game Break is an initiative provided by BCLC that allows individuals to voluntarily and privately participate in a program where they can temporarily abstain from gambling. By enrolling in Game Break, individuals make a personal decision to exclude themselves from B.C. gambling establishments and/or PlayNow, the sole legally authorized online gambling platform in B.C.
Changes Coming into Effect on Monday
Once the new requirements come into play on Monday, June 23, individuals will be required to present government-issued photo identification for entry at casinos. IDs will be scanned by security staff and automatically checked against the database of individuals restricted from entering gambling facilities, like those enrolled in Game Break. Personal information will not be saved.
BCLC’s President and CEO, Pat Davis, stated that the Crown has been actively raising awareness among their players about the recently announced changes in entry requirements. These changes are aimed at supporting individuals who have sought assistance from BCLC. Mr. Davis also highlighted that B.C. is likely the first jurisdiction in North America to implement it. Hence demonstrating its commitment to promoting responsible play.
According to thorough third-party reviews of the Crown’s self-exclusion program, participants reckon that the identification check at gaming locations is the most effective way to support their choice as they are denied entry. Meanwhile, BCLC reminds that local residents continue to have access to free prevention, treatment, and support tools via Gambling Support BC.
Additionally, BCLC reminded that before the changes which will be in play from June 26, 2023, identification is still required for the processing of jackpots and large prize wins. Also, players may be asked to verify their age and/or identity. Lastly, the Crown Corporation said more information on the enhanced identification requirements can be found at: www.casinosbc.com/about/id-required.
Enhancing Services in 2023
This year BCLC has made numerous improvements to its services including inking a partnership agreement with Intralot. Via this three-year partnership, Intralot’s subsidiary will supply the Crown corporation with its retail sports betting technology. Thus, paving the way for a retail sportsbook expansion across the Western Canadian province.
Earlier in 2023, BCLC also reported that it has partnered with Everi Holdings Inc. to bolster its anti-money laundering protocols. As part of the deal, the Crown incorporated the cutting-edge Everi Compliance Anti-Money Laundering solution across its land-based and digital gaming activities. The technology is already used across over 600 gambling sites throughout the world.
Source: “Enhanced ID Requirements Begin at B.C. Casinos June 26” BCLC, June 22, 2023
