Google reverses Connecticut online gambling ad blackout
Search giant to accept ads from certified operators in line with revised CDCP soft launch timetable
Google has opened its doors to Connecticut-licensed online gambling operators and will accept online ads from firms targeting the Constitution State with effect from October 12.
In an update of its gambling and games policy, the global search giant called time on a previous postponement of the policy change, which had come into effect on October 6 after Connecticut officials stopped a planned launch of online gaming on October 7.
Under its protocols, all advertisers must apply for certification before any ads can be featured online.
“In accordance with the press release issued by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (CDCP) with their revised timelines, application for certification will be open to advertisers who wish to promote online gambling content in this region on October 12,” Google’s policy update stated.
CDCP officials confirmed the informal launch of online sports betting, online casino, and DFS in the Constitution State earlier this week.
Under the ‘soft launch’ procedure, online sports betting will officially commence at 3pm and will kickstart a seven-day rollout period to allow for any remaining issues to be ironed out.
Each operator will be limited to just 750 users per platform, with licensed operators already eligible to acquire customers.
Rush Street Interactive (RSI), which has partnered with the Connecticut Lottery Corporation, has indicated that players will be allowed to register on the firm’s PlaySugarHouse online sportsbook in Connecticut on a first come, first served-basis.
Once the limit is reached, customers who pre-register at PlaySugarHouse will be added to a waiting list and notified as soon as the full launch is authorized on October 19.
These customers will then receive an extra free bet once their accounts are opened, on top of the $250 first deposit match bonus to which all new players are entitled.
RSI CEO Richard Schwartz welcomed the arrival of sports betting in the state.
He said: “We are confident that with our huge volume of betting content, wide range of deposit and withdrawal methods, real-time cash-out approvals, and best-in-class customer service, Connecticut players will come to prefer PlaySugarHouse when wagering on their favorite sports.”
DraftKings and FanDuel are also expected to commence operations in Connecticut on the soft launch basis as soon as the launch window opens.