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19th International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking - Lobbying 101: How to be an Effective Advocate in the U.S. Gaming Industry

During the upcoming 19th International Conference on Gambling & Risk Taking, Jonathan Bing will be leading a session titled "Lobbying 101: How to be an Effective Advocate in the U.S. Gaming Industry." The session will cover how effective lobbying requires more than advocacy -- it demands a holistic understanding of how gaming intersects with economic development, public policy, and consumer protection. This session will explore how the industry can properly engage with lawmakers and policymakers and how you can be a more effective advocate. The conversation will cover practical approaches to advancing both land-based and online gaming initiatives across different jurisdictions, building coalitions with labor, hospitality, and technology partners, and anticipating regulatory concerns. We will discuss practical considerations of how to best present your position to the legislative and executive branches, the use of professional lobbyists and lobbying compliance, how the pandemic affected government advocacy, and the use of social media in advancing your cause. Attendees will gain insight into navigating evolving legislative landscapes, particularly as states consider expanding gaming. We will also emphasize the importance of aligning industry goals with public interests, such as workforce development, community reinvestment, and safeguards for problem gambling, as well as tax revenue, tourism, and infrastructure investment, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible gaming.