Rush Street Interactive has become the inaugural U.S. operator to attain the Ontario Responsible Gaming Accreditation.

Rush Street Interactive, a prominent operator in sports betting and iGaming from the U.S., has successfully achieved an important milestone in its journey.Ontario sports betting launch plan.

On Thursday, the Chicago-based company proudly declared that it has become the first U.S. entity to earn a three-year accreditation under the RG Check Accreditation Program facilitated by the Responsible Gaming Council.

The program has beenembedded into the requirements This accreditation is essential for all iGaming companies looking to operate legally within the Ontario market.

As a result, both of Rush Street Interactive’s Ontario platforms,BetRivers.com alongside PlaySugarHouse.com, are prepared to commence operations when the complete Ontario sports betting market officially opens on April 4.

This achievement marks a significant progression for RSI in its initiatives related to responsible gaming, as emphasized by CEO Richard Schwartz.

"Obtaining RG Check Accreditation showcases our dedication to fully implementing RSI’s corporate social responsibility policies, which encompass our ongoing responsible gaming efforts,\" Schwartz stated in the press release. \"Our aim is to provide our esteemed customers and staff with the necessary tools and resources to foster a culture where gaming remains safe, equitable, and enjoyable.\"

Where the Ontario Market Stands

In the press release from Thursday, Rush Street Interactive confirmed its intention to launch operations coinciding with the full activation of the Ontario sports betting market on April 4.

New companies entering the Ontario marketplace are required to obtain the Responsible Gaming Council’s endorsement, along with receiving licensing for sports betting and iGaming from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and iGaming Ontario (iGO).

The RG Check accreditation procedure assists gaming facilities and Ontario online casino platforms in assessing, supervising, and enhancing all aspects of their responsible gambling practices, as stated in the release.

The RG Check program consists of nine standards and 48 criteria that evaluate the efficiency and breadth of an operator’s RG initiatives, including support for players who might be facing gambling-related issues, according to the announcement.

"The RG Check program is a clear indication that an operator emphasizes responsible gambling at the heart of its operations,\" remarked Shelley White, CEO of the Responsible Gambling Council, in the press release. \"This achievement represents RSI's commitment to transparency, player safety, a duty of care, and ongoing enhancement, while also promoting a culture of responsible gambling and sustainable play. RG Check is an essential resource for managing risks and bolstering the effectiveness of RG programming. RGC is pleased to support RSI in its efforts to minimize harm.\"

The RG Check initiative has already been adopted by physical casinos in Ontario. Developed by the council in 2021, RG Check was created in collaboration with policy makers, operators, players, and individuals who have experienced gambling addiction and its detrimental effects, according to a recent announcement.

Who’s Been Approved in Ontario

The following are the internet gaming operators that have received approval to launch in Ontario, based on information from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario website.