Expansion in State Gambling Could Bring Expansion of Gambling Addiction

[hrmjustin]

By Karen DeWitt

New Yorkers have a chance to vote this November on whether there should be more gambling in the state. Those who treat people with gambling addictions say it will likely result in more problem gamblers.

The New York Council on Problem Gambling is a not for profit, affiliated with the state agency on alcohol and drug abuse. It coordinates and publicizes treatments for New Yorkers with gambling addictions.

Because of their position, the group does not take a stance on whether the state should expand gambling. Michelle Hadden, director of Prevention and Training, says they are “agnostic” on whether gambling is good or bad. But she says there’s no arguing that more opportunities to gamble brings more gambling addictions.

“Any time there’s an expansion of gambling and it’s available, we’re going to see some folks get into trouble with it,” said Hadden. “I think we will see some additional problem gamblers.”

Read more at http://wxxinews.org/post/expansion-state-gambling-could-bring-expansion-gambling-addiction

[NYC_SKP]

1. State sponsored vice and misery, directed mostly toward the poor...

...and, as a consequence, keeping them poor.

I remember when California launched it's lottery.

I was living in NYC and it made me cry.

[hrmjustin]

2. I am very worried about this. Yes it will bring business to the state but at what cost?