Legislation
US – New York State Senate approves problem gambling bill
By Phil - 26 March 2021
The New York State Senate has approved legislation that will see the creation of a problem gambling education programme in the state.
Under SB 4207, sponsored by Senator Joe Addabbo, the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services will create a programme, which all players will have to complete, before being removed from a self-exclusion list.
Senator Addabbo said: “Problem Gambling Awareness Month serves as a reminder that gambling addiction is real and requires effective resources to educate, support, and treat individuals. As the prospect of legalising mobile sports betting appears closer than ever, we remain focused on raising public awareness about problem gambling and its negative effects. This legislation will help raise awareness while enhancing self-exclusion services for individuals seeking to confront their issues with problem gambling.”
He added: “With March Madness upon us, we want to inform the public about problem gambling. Every year during March Madness there is a spike in both gambling and gambling addiction helpline calls. I continue my steadfast commitment to manage gaming responsibly in New York. The expansion of gaming in NYS, including Resorts World casino in my district, demonstrates the importance of local jobs, educational funding, economic growth and also the need for educational programs that can help better inform our citizens of gambling addictions.”
In March, the New York Gaming Commission, state agencies, retailers and commercial casino operators launched initiatives to raise public awareness for problem gambling to remove the stigma on problem gambling addiction.
”It is vitally important that we continue to provide a safe racing, gaming and wagering environment in New York,” Senator Addabbo added.
