Springfield Campaign Aims to Limit Drunk Driving Linked to MGM Casino

The City of Springfield introduced the Springfield Safe Ride Home Campaign to help reduce the risk of impaired driving associated with alcohol use and gambling at MGM Springfield.

Springfield Launches New Awareness Campaign for Driving Under the Influence

Spearheaded by the City of Springfield Department of Health and Human Services (SDHHS) and the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health (MACGH), and funded by the Community Mitigation Fund (CMF), the initiative wants to promote safe driving amongst casino goers. 

The Springfield Safe Ride Home Project began in 2023 following a Massachusetts Gaming Commission report, which found that between 2018 and 2020, MGM Springfield ranked as the second-highest “last drink” location in the state. A subsequent 2024 study of 548 MGM Springfield patrons revealed that 37% exhibited signs of risky driving behavior, while 27% held inaccurate beliefs about their ability to drive safely after consuming three or more drinks.

The campaign highlights the need to support municipalities in addressing the impacts of gambling within their communities. According to authorities, the grant is funding interventions that help casino patrons make safer choices before, during, and after their visits to MGM Springfield.

MGM Springfield is quite the popular destination for locals, as the data shows. Such being the case, perhaps it should not come as a surprise that the venue has produced many jackpot winners. Last week, for example, a player won a jackpot from just a $5 bet.

Officials Talk About the Importance of Such a Project

Marlene Warner, CEO of MACGH, explained that the Safe Ride Home initiative builds on the organization’s existing player health programs. It encourages patrons to set safer limits on both gambling and drinking, and to plan for getting to their next destination. She also expressed gratitude to MGM Springfield for its support in making the campaign possible.

The campaign’s public health and roadway safety messages are also shared by Springfield’s Health & Human Services Commissioner, Helen Caulton-Harris, and Police Superintendent, Lawrence Akers. Mayor Domenic Sarno explained that there are no better people to deliver the initiative’s message than these two prominent Springfield figures.

“When you’re making plans to have fun, please make sure you are also planning for safety and a safe way home too,” Mayor Sarno further explained. “Let’s all do our part toward the safety and well-being of all in our community. “

The campaign will engage Springfield residents through a multi-platform strategy that includes digital advertising, social media, casino signage, a billboard visible from I-91, and community-based outreach.