Laura Kelly is Kansas’s governor. She has been declared Problem Gambling Awareness Month by the state, in an effort to increase understanding of the problem locally. All signs point to expansion. The state has legalized gambling on sovereign land belonging to native tribes.
Kansas doubles down on helping vulnerable groups
Kelly shares the Kansas Department For Aging and Disability Services view of the month and its importance. According to the department, this initiative aims to raise awareness about the “prevention, treatment, recovery and support services” available to address the problem. A similar support from the government is important, as Kansas could be looking to expand its historic horse racing facilities in Wichita. Three new applicants have submitted their bids to Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission.
The Department and the Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling have both praised the 20-year-old campaign, which is more relevant than ever now that most Americans have access to some type of regulated gambling product. This is where the toll gambling has been considered.
The department estimates that approximately 2 million Americans are considered to be pathological gamblers. Their disorders can take on severe forms. An additional four to six million people could be classified as moderate or mild gamblers. According to the department:
Problem gambling is a problem that affects thousands upon thousands of Kansans from all races, ages, and ethnicities. It can cause significant economic and social damage to individuals, families, businesses, communities, and their communities.
Self-exclusion can be a good first step.
Carol Spiker , department problem gambling program manager stated that although the numbers are concerning, they are not the end. Spiker said that problem gambling can be treated and that campaigns like Problem Gambling Awareness Month must be promoted to help prevent further problems.
The department also cited successful efforts to help Kansas residents through the introduction time-tested tools such as the self exclusion program that was rolled out throughout the state. Although self-exclusion does not guarantee that vulnerable gamblers will quit gambling, it has been a success for many.
