As March Madness grips the nation, the excitement of the NCAA Division I Women’s and Men’s Basketball Tournaments also brings a spike in gambling activities. This year, U.S. sportsbooks are projected to handle approximately $3.3 billion in legal wagers, according to the American Gaming Association.
The thrill of betting during March Madness is a tradition for many, but it poses significant risks for those dealing with gambling addiction. To address this, March is recognized as Problem Gambling Awareness Month by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), aiming to spotlight prevention and treatment options.
In Wyoming County, Northeast Pennsylvania, efforts are being made to tackle this issue. District Attorney Joe Peters, with the DA’s Community Action Group, has launched educational programs targeting the perils of gambling addiction, especially among the youth. “March Madness seemed to be the perfect opportunity to talk about working — particularly with our youth — to try to get ahead of the problem,” Peters explained.
State officials like Sen. Wayne Fontana are also focused on mitigating gambling’s adverse effects. Since Pennsylvania legalized iGaming in 2017, gambling opportunities have expanded rapidly. Fontana has introduced legislation, including Senate Bill 265, to ban credit card use for online gambling, and Senate Bill 266, aimed at preventing casinos from marketing to those on self-exclusion lists.
‘It has evolved into something altogether different’
Reflecting on the state’s gambling industry, Fontana noted, “It has evolved into something altogether different.” He emphasized the need for updated legislation to protect those vulnerable to gambling addiction.
Avoiding ‘crippling credit card debt’
Fontana’s concerns about the relationship between gambling and debt are shared by many. His sponsorship memo for SB265 states, “Gambling and credit card debt often go hand in hand since this disorder can lead to financial problems that affect one’s ability to pay off debt.” With the average credit card balance in Pennsylvania exceeding $5,640, limiting credit use in online gaming is seen as a necessary step.
Other states, such as Maine and Illinois, are considering similar bans, and major sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings have already stopped accepting credit card deposits. However, Fontana insists that legislative measures are crucial to ensuring consumer protection.
They’re chasing that win, and the money runs out
In Wyoming County, Peters is committed to raising awareness about the destructive cycle of problem gambling. “The addictive nature of the algorithms causes people to get in deeper and deeper,” he warned, noting the risks of borrowing and financial ruin.
Kevin Winters, CEO of Almond Digital Health, highlighted financial distress as a common sign of gambling addiction. His company offers a no-cost app to help those concerned about their gambling habits.
‘Your bank account looks like it’s been hacked’
Winters stated, “A lot of people who have been through a kind of gambling addiction will tell you that the first visible, outward symptom of gambling addiction is your bank account looks like it’s been hacked.” He stressed the importance of financial literacy in recovery.
Kyle Popish, a counselor from Lackawanna County, echoed this, emphasizing that understanding budgeting is key to overcoming gambling addiction. “Every dollar in your bank account should have a job,” he advised.
‘A lot of people looking to get help voluntarily’
Despite the challenges, there is hope as more people seek help for gambling addiction. Jason Harlen, CEO of Wyoming Valley Alcohol and Drug Services, noted an increase in individuals voluntarily seeking treatment.
Josh Ercole, Executive Director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania (CCGP), observed a growing number of helpline calls from less populated areas, indicating a broader awareness of gambling-related issues.
“It’s free, it’s confidential, and it’s not just for the most extreme problems,” Ercole said, underscoring the importance of the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline in supporting those at risk.
