Mn Gambling License

4/4/20224/4/2022

Scholarship applications now open through October 31, 2019

To become a DHS-approved problem gambling provider in Minnesota an individual must: 1) be a licensed alcohol and drug counselor, mental health professional (licensed clinical social worker, psychologist, marriage or family therapist) or a psychiatric registered nurse, and 2) complete additional gambling training approved by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS).

A Minnesota Gaming/Gambling License can only be obtained through an authorized government agency. Depending on the type of business, where you're doing business and other specific regulations that may apply, there may be multiple government agencies that you must contact in order to get a Minnesota Gaming/Gambling License.

A counselor can become certified by taking training available online through the University of Minnesota Duluth/North American Training Institute.

Professionals may earn an International Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC) credential offered through the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board. More information can be found here. If counselors have previously received training through another state’s program and hold an ICGC, reciprocity may be available.

There are a few forms of legal gambling in Minnesota: pari-mutuel betting on horse racing, a card club at Canterbury Park, Indian tribal casinos, charitable gambling, and a state lottery. Lawful gambling and gambling devices are governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 349 and are overseen by the Gambling. Minnesota, like most jurisdictions, requires a license for those who want to operate gambling-related business. These licenses are issued primarily for the manufacture or distribution of gambling. (4) permits a structure or location owned or occupied by the actor or under the actor's control to be used as a gambling place; or (5) except where authorized by statute, possesses a gambling device. Clause (5) does not prohibit possession of a gambling device in a person's dwelling for amusement purposes in a manner that does not afford.

Prospective gambling counselors interested in accessing Minnesota problem gambling funds must be in a contractual relationship with DHS prior to beginning any training or counseling. No treatment or scholarship reimbursements are available prior to DHS approval.

DHS provides a timeline for those seeking to become qualified gambling treatment providers as well as an application.

Scholarship Available

The Minnesota DHS offers a scholarship to assist counselors in completing the Studies in Gambling Addiction certificate offered through the University of Minnesota Duluth/North American Training Institute.

To apply for a scholarship, please contact DHS Problem Gambling Program staff. Scholarship applications are only available when there is an open RFP and after training approval is received.

Scholarship applications are available for a limited, designated time as determined by DHS. If you are interested, please complete the application and return to Trevor Urman at DHS. Do not enroll in the training until you’ve received DHS approval.

A limited number of full scholarships are available to providers working with an identified underserved population. Note: Professionals can be gambling counselors in Minnesota without DHS oversight. DHS approves/certifies providers/counselors only if they desire to access state grant funds for this use.

If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a certified gambling counselor in Minnesota or have questions, please call DHS Problem Gambling Program staff: Trevor Urman, (651) 431-2231.

Mn Gambling License

Millions in ‘Sin Taxes’ Flowing into Minnesota’s coffers during COVID-19 Pandemic

Mn State Gambling Control Board

By Susan Sheridan Tucker, NPGA Executive Director (as published in the Friday’s edition, Nov 27th, of the Star Tribune I cringe when I see “sin taxes” associated with gambling. I understand the intent. Too often we view excessive gambling as a moral weakness. We believe these “problem or compulsive gamblers” lack the...

In Their Own Words – Tim’s Story

I had my first big win of $500 as a 7-year old at a church picnic in a small town in Minnesota. I was like a celebrity for a while after that. I chased that feeling for 34 years, becoming very competitive in sports, games, spelling bees and just about everything else. I figured out I had a gambling problem in 1994...

NCPG Conference Roundup

I (virtually) attended the annual conference of the National Council on Problem Gambling in July. Here is a recap of some of the presentations. Industry Trends The conference featured a considerable focus on responsible gambling, particularly in light of the expansion of gambling. This includes sports betting and...

Minnesota Gambling Control Board Plays Critical Role in State Gambling

The Minnesota Gambling Control Board plays a critical role in regulating gambling activity in Minnesota. Northern Light conducted the following Q&A with Matt Gettman, the agency’s executive director. Q: What is the primary role of the Minnesota Gambling Control Board (MGCB)?A: Our role is to regulate the lawful...

Recovering Problem Gambler Leads Way Through Recovery

Jess Stewart’s desire to become an advocate for problem gamblers was born while he was at Project Turnabout for residential gambling treatment in 2016. Four years later, he’s proven to be a highly motivated, steadfast voice for those afflicted with gambling disorder. After graduating from Project Turnabout, Jess...

COVID Mental Health Trends from EAP (Employee Assistance Program) Callers

The following are some trends that have emerged from people calling in to employee assistance programs. Loneliness is causing increased mental health issues. This seems to be an underlying theme if clients are far from their support systems or have spent a lot of time alone. Issues from the past, including previous...