NASPL is partnering again with NCPG to promote public awareness of problem gambling and the availability of prevention, treatment and recovery services
CONCORD, Ohio (March 1, 2024) – This March, in observance of Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries is again partnering with the National Council on Problem Gambling to provide educational resources and training for members, retailers and players.
PGAM, the nationwide grassroots campaign now in its 21st year, seeks to increase public awareness of problem gambling and promote the prevention, treatment, and recovery services available. According to NCPG, this year’s theme, “Every Story Matters,” is a reminder that every narrative, battle and triumph related to problem gambling is significant.
“By increasing awareness and fostering an open dialogue about problem gambling, we can work to reduce the stigma surrounding gambling addiction and promote the resources available for treatment and recovery,” said Keith Whyte, Executive Director of NCPG.
PGAM participants can access a toolkit guide, graphics downloads, and additional information and resources on the NCPG website.
According to NCPG, research indicates that most adults who choose to gamble are able to do so responsibly. Approximately 1% of U.S. adults meet the diagnostic criteria for severe gambling problems. About 85% of U.S. adults have gambled at least once in their lives, with 60% having gambled within the past year.
Throughout March and beyond, NASPL and NCPG work together to enhance responsible gambling education and practices within the lottery industry. "At NASPL, we deeply value our ongoing partnership with NCPG, and we are pleased to see the achievements and increased involvement resulting from our combined responsible gambling efforts," said NASPL Executive Director David Gale. "We’re proud to stand alongside the lottery industry this month in raising problem gambling awareness."
"At NASPL, we deeply value our ongoing partnership with NCPG, and we are pleased to see the achievements and increased involvement resulting from our combined responsible gambling efforts."
Beginning in 2014, in collaboration with NCPG and the North Carolina Education Lottery, NASPL worked to create comprehensive responsible gambling training materials for both lottery employees and retailers; the group effort culminated in the release of specialized training videos to be shared among the membership. From then on, NASPL has continued to grow and evolve its RG efforts and related training components to better serve the evolving industry. Notably, in response to the widespread legalization of sports betting in the U.S., NASPL recently updated its Guidelines for Responsible Gambling to incorporate RG protocols tailored to sports betting.
NASPL and NCPG also worked together to establish the Responsible Gambling and Best Practices Verification Program for lotteries seeking to create or improve responsible gambling programs within their jurisdictions. This program marks the first time a segment of the U.S. gambling industry has adopted a responsible gaming framework and independent verification process. As of today, 27 lotteries have achieved official verification.
Responsible gambling resources, including Verification Program information, employee and retailer training videos, and a downloadable RG Toolkit are available to NASPL members on the NASPL Matrix.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a gambling problem, help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling provides a range of resources, including answers to commonly asked questions, a gambling behavior self assessment, information about treatment and the National Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER) to help connect you with local resources.
About the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries
Founded in 1971 as an informal exchange of information among three pioneering lottery directors, the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries has grown into an active association representing 53 lottery organizations. NASPL serves as a platform for sharing exclusive research and data, developing standards and best practices, and providing networking and learning opportunities for everyone in the lottery industry.
About the National Council on Problem Gambling
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington DC, NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.
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