The National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) has announced a partnership with the International Masters of Gaming Law () in a nationwide effort to advance a mutual goal: Promoting best practices in gaming law and regulation.

The joint venture, dubbed “Bringing Best Practices Home,” would solve one of the most challenging problems with gambling legislation, educating lawmakers.

According to a press release, it “will marry the in-state expertise of IMGL’s network of accomplished gaming lawyers with the experience of NCLGS members and staff to provide in-person seminars in state capitals to advise incoming and experienced lawmakers and regulators as to gaming trends and practices throughout the nation.”

NCLGS Treasurer and Vice President Sen. Jon Ford of Indiana said, “As a legislator, I know that the best policies recognize universal principles, and also take into account local issues and sensibilities. This joint effort will address both, allowing lawmakers to understand and advance what will work in their respective states.”

IMGL President Marc Ellinger said, “As the pre-eminent association of gaming lawyers, IMGL brings unparalleled expertise in the best practices of gaming law and regulation.  This new joint venture with NCLGS will allow IMGL to share these best practices in tailored programs for new or mature gaming jurisdictions.  Together, IMGL and NCLGS are working to improve and advance gaming law across the United States.”

Streamlining a Difficult Process

The current path to expanded gambling requires the specific gambling issues landing on the right legislator’s radar, bringing in experts for public and private hearings, and hoping that lobbyists and special interests don’t gain the ear of lawmakers and corrupt the process. The results have been mixed, with some states passing good legislation (relatively speaking) and others passing extremely flawed sports betting and online gambling bills.  

As the press release indicates, the aim is to offer in-house sessions “structured to meet the specific needs within each state and will be led by based in those states in partnership with NCLGS lawmakers.” These sessions will also include experts in academia and government.

NCLGS President Keith Pickard (who assumed the leadership role in October 2020) noted that “working with experienced organizations such as IMGL is a priority for NCLGS. Our mission is to promote best practices, and we are reaching out to experts in multiple disciplines and locations to help us reach that essential goal.”

About NCLGS

NCLGS has been engaging in education since its inception through biannual meetings where lawmakers and regulators from member states and prospective member states gather for panels and networking.  NCLGS conferences are good barometers for where states stand on gambling issues and provide a unique opportunity to hear from industry leaders, key lawmakers and regulators, and experts in problem gambling, gambling law, and lottery.

The is slated to take place in Boston from July 7-10, 2022.