Alberta will open its regulated online gambling market on July 13 with mandatory responsible-gaming safeguards in place from the start, including a Day 1 self-exclusion system and independent operator accreditation.
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission laid out the framework in its Standards and Requirements for Internet Gaming, a document issued on Jan. 14 and signed by the board chair. It says the agency regulates online provincial lotteries and iGaming suppliers with a clear commitment to social responsibility.
The handbook sets out a Social Responsibility section with subsections for Minors and Responsible Gambling, and it includes a separate Centralized Self-Exclusion section. It also defines key terms used across the rules, including iGaming, self-excluded persons and minors, which the document says are people under 18.
The self-exclusion system is designed as a single digital route for Albertans who want to block access to gaming sites, rather than a series of separate requests across different operators. The program’s site includes explainers, resources and frequently asked questions.
Operators will also have to put the programme in front of players. All registered operators in Alberta must promote self-exclusion and provide direct access to it through their iGaming sites.
The rules go further on unsettled bets. If a player self-excludes before an eligible futures wager has been settled, the operator must void the bet and return the qualifying stake.
The standards give AGLC enforcement power as well. Board policies are a condition of registration, anything not specifically permitted is prohibited, and non-compliance can lead to administrative sanctions or disciplinary action up to and including suspension or cancellation of registration.
The accreditation layer was set out in February, when Alberta iGaming Corporation announced a partnership with the Responsible Gaming Council that made RG Check a mandatory requirement for all operators entering the market. According to the release, RG Check examines governance, player safeguards, staff training and marketing practices, while the council conducts regular assessments so operators keep their accreditation in good standing.
Dan Keene, AiGC’s chief executive, said the requirement is meant to ensure every operator shows its commitment to player safety through independent verification of its responsible-gambling programmes. Sarah McCarthy, the council’s chief executive, said the partnership shows regulators and responsible-gambling experts working together to protect players from day one.
