Hearing spotlights proposed higher-limit vetting and self-exclusion practices; regulators say safeguards will be added

The proposed compact amendments include a new, standardized process for special higher-limit players that would require identity verification, source-of-funds checks, financial-suitability assessments and ongoing monitoring, presenters told the joint committees. The Cowlitz and ALNA/Ilani presenters said the measures are intended to reduce gambling-related harm while permitting regulated higher-limit activity.

Cara Fox LaRose, identified as president and general manager of the ALNA/Ilani resort, described a "special limit player program" and said it would include enhanced know-your-customer and diligence procedures, as well as monitoring tied to anti–money-laundering compliance. She said the resort already requires vetting for very high limits in other jurisdictions and proposed that the compact formalize similar practices in Washington.

When Vice Chair Stearns asked for a count of people using self-exclusion, Fox LaRose said she did not have a precise number. Paul Casaro, executive director of the Tribal Gaming Commission, responded that his agency operates the tribal self-exclusion program and that "many hundreds of people" have taken advantage of it over the years; he also described coordination with problem-gambling treatment programs and conditional processes for people applying to come off self-exclusion.