Voluntary Exclusion Program

The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission (KRGC) administers the statewide Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) for problem gamblers. This state of the art program provides problem gamblers with a method to acknowledge that they have a gambling problem and to take personal responsibility for it by agreeing to stop entering Kansas casinos. The Kansas VEP program is unique in that if offers problem gamblers two options for exclusion. A person can either sign up for a lifetime ban or they can choose a two year ban. After the two years is up the individual can apply to come off of the list but must first meet two criteria. They must complete a problem gambling assessment and then complete a series of courses about healthy lifestyle choices. Then and only then will the commission make a decision on whether the person can come off of the list. It must be stressed that it is the responsibility of the compulsive gambler to seek treatment and refrain from visiting Kansas casinos.

The program directs Kansas casino managers to:

remove Self-Excluded persons from all direct marketing lists;
refuse check cashing privileges; and
deny participation in player programs.

Participants in the VEP that are found in a state owned Kansas casino can be subject to arrest for criminal trespass and will have any gaming chips, jackpots, tickets, or winnings found on them confiscated and forfeited.

The Voluntary Exclusion Program is not a quick fix for problem gamblers. Rather, it is a tool that many recovery problem gamblers find useful in their overall recovery program. The vast majority of people who suffer from compulsive gambling will need counseling or group therapy such as Gamblers Anonymous.

Enrollment in the VEP can be done at any of the state owned Kansas casinos including Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Dodge City, Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane, Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City and Kansas Crossing Casino in Pittsburg. No appointment is necessary to enroll at one of the casinos, simply ask for a KRGC agent who can assist you with the application process. Enrollments may also be done at the Topeka office with an appointment. Please call 785-296-5800 for an appointment. The KRGC Topeka office is located at 700 SW Harrison, Suite 420, Topeka, Kansas 66603. The office hours for KRGC are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

You can view a sample VEP application here.