Problem Gambling Treatment Situation In Connecticut Gets Hairy

Problem gambling can always become an issue in states where casino gambling and other betting options are offered. Connecticut fits that description with two major casinos and a state lottery that keeps expanding.

What will not be expanding, however, is the budget for problem gambling treatment. In fact, legislators in the state have cut problem gambling money in their new budget, and it has many people in the state shaking their heads in disbelief.

"We have a governor who is continually trying to expand gambling in our state (Connecticut)," said observer Mary Ann Whitford, "but instead of adding more money to deal with gambling addictions, the state is cutting funds to these programs. That just seems ridiculous."

Whitford brought up the issue of gambling expansion. Governor M. Jodi Rell is contemplating whether or not to allow electronic keno gambling throughout the state. While no decision is made, critics of the plan believe that dealing with problem gambling should at least be a factor in that decision.

The two tribal casinos are also trying to expand their business, and they have combined their efforts to do so. Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun have entered into a billboard campaign where they are trying to entice gamblers from New Jersey to come north to Connecticut to do their casino gambling.

If they are successful, that will create a bigger need for problem gambling treatment. The new budget calls for a $1.9 million budget for Problem Gaming Services through the 2010 fiscal year. That figure would then drop to $1.5 million for the following three years.

July 10, 2009
Posted By April Gardner
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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