Ethical Gambling Reform and Public Health.

The unprecedented growth of legalized gambling in America is a threat to public health. With phones, tablets, and computers, the gambling industry now delivers 24-hour non-stop access to online casino and sports gambling to virtually every person in America. With increased access to gambling the risk of public harm related to gambling addiction grows exponentially. Checks and balances are mandatory and independent advocates must develop and implement a public health policy response.

Gambling disorder is an addiction on the same level as heroin, opioids, cocaine, tobacco, and alcohol. Gambling addiction causes severe and often irreparable harm to people, families, and society. The public health, social, and economic implications are enormous. In 2021, people in America will lose more than $50 billion to the gambling industry. One of every two people struggling with gambling addiction will contemplate suicide, and one in five attempt to kill themselves. Professional and collegiate sports, and the world’s largest media companies have become part of the gambling industry. State governments are full business partners relying heavily on gambling revenue and abrogating the duty to protect the public from harm.

The explosive growth of legalized gambling is a public health issue requiring reform and regulation at the federal level. Properly handled, lives and families can be protected with much-needed reform, regulation, and policy change. The unacceptable alternative will be another example where government fails to protect the public from the inherent danger when profit and revenue are prioritized over public safety.

The Ethical Gambling Reform Group shall serve as an independent advocate working for public health policy, reform, and regulation. Lives and families are in the balance.