Q: How is the AGCO changing the way it regulates lotteries?
A: The AGCO is modernizing the way it regulates all lines of business it oversees. The cornerstone of AGCO’s modernization plan has been the adoption of the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming. Due to the unique nature of the OLG Lottery business, the decision was made to develop a set of Registrar’s Standards for Gaming: Lottery Sector for OLG Lotteries.
Q: What is a “Standards-Based” approach?
A: AGCO’s standards-based approach to regulation is aimed at delivering a more effective regulatory structure, based on the achievement of regulatory objectives or outcomes as opposed to prescriptive rules. This approach offers an improved assurance of compliance by allowing the AGCO to more effectively target resources to areas of higher risk.
Q: Why is the AGCO doing this?
A: The goal is to deliver a more modern, effective regulatory structure. This “standards-based” approach ensures that the highest standards for integrity for Lottery Gaming in Ontario are maintained and the public interest is protected. For the AGCO, the standards-based model allows it to focus its resources on key risks to Lottery Gaming regulation in a rapidly evolving industry.
Q: Who was responsible for establishing the new Lottery standards?
A: The standards were established by the Registrar of Alcohol, Gaming and Racing. They were developed in collaboration with key gaming industry stakeholders, public interest groups and government partners.
Q: What does a retailer need to do differently?
A: As a retailer, you will continue to sell, redeem, and handle Lottery transactions in compliance with the Gaming Control Act, as you do today. Please continue to follow the policies listed in the Retailer Policy Manual and familiarize yourself with the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming: Lottery Sector to ensure that you comply.
Q: When are Lottery standards being implemented?
A: The Registrar’s Standards for Gaming: Lottery Sector will be in effect as of June 30, 2017.
Q: Will the AGCO continue to do inspections?
A: The AGCO will continue to conduct inspections of your business and will assess your compliance with the provisions of the Gaming Control Act as well as the 21 Standards which apply to Lottery Retailers in the new Registrar’s Standards for Gaming: Lottery Sector.
Q: Where can I find more information on the Registrar’s Standards?
A: Visit the Standards page, or contact AGCO Customer Service at 416-326-8700 or Toll-Free at 1-800-522-2876.
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions about the “Standards-Based” approach and Lottery retailer operations?
A: If you have questions about selling, redeeming, or handling Lottery transactions, please contact OLG Support Centre at 1-800-387-0104.
For questions regarding how or why standards are being introduced for the lottery sector please view the Registrar’s Standards for Gaming: Lottery Sector, or contact AGCO Customer Service at 416-326-8700 or Toll-Free at 1-800-522-2876.