New York State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., along with other legislators, has proposed a new law that would establish a special organization to tackle gambling addiction – the Problem Gambling Advisory Council.
This council would provide guidance to the Governor’s office and the state legislature on the difficulties associated with problematic gambling and suggest ways to enhance the availability of preventative measures and treatment options.
Addabbo has been a leading figure in advocating for gambling legislation in New York State. He introduced the online gambling proposal and played a crucial role in promoting retail sports betting legislation, as well as the legalization of online sports betting within the state.
The organization would consist of 13 members, including the head of the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), the head of the Gaming Commission, and 11 additional members.
“As a co-sponsor of this bill and the head of the Senate Racing, Gaming, and Wagering Committee, I am delighted that we are fulfilling our promise to provide more resources and raise public awareness about problem gambling in our state,” Addabbo stated.
Making mobile sports wagering legal has yielded more educational funding and income for our state than initially anticipated. The recently granted casino licenses in the southern part of the state will generate employment opportunities and extra resources. This law demonstrates that we haven’t disregarded the need to address problematic gambling in a prompt and forward-thinking way.
This news follows a survey conducted by the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) which indicated that 5% of adults in the state display signs of problematic gambling. Furthermore, 10% of students in grades 7 through 12 also exhibit problematic gambling behavior.
State legislators recently approved plans to construct three new casinos in areas south of the state, including New York City.
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