Governor Kathy Hochul today issued a proclamation designating March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in New York State, as the Responsible Play Partnership, consisting of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports, the New York State Gaming Commission, and the New York Council on Problem Gambling, continues to ensure New Yorkers are aware of problem gambling as well as the prevention, treatment and recovery services available across the state.
"New York continues to lead in providing responsible entertainment for millions while bringing in record-shattering revenue for education, youth sports, and problem gambling prevention," Governor Hochul said. "We also remain committed to supporting New Yorkers struggling with addiction across our state through significant investment in prevention, treatment and recovery services."
To further drive attention to the issue, state office buildings and iconic landmarks will be illuminated in yellow light today, March 12, which also serves as Gambling Disorder Screening Day.
The following locations are participating in the coordinated lighting today, March 12:
- Albany International Airport Gateway
- Empire State Plaza
- Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
- Grand Central Terminal
- Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex
- MTA-LIRR
- One World Trade Center
- Peace Bridge
- Penn Station – East End Gateway
- State Fairgrounds – Main Gate and Expo Center
Problem gambling is often a hidden addiction that can go undetected and untreated, and result in financial, emotional, social, occupational, and physical harm, moreover, it can have permanent devastating consequences for individuals, families, friends and others in their lives who are impacted.
New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “As gambling becomes more prevalent throughout New York, it is vitally important to bring greater awareness and heightened attention to the potential harms that can be associated with gambling. For individuals who are at risk or currently experiencing problems with gambling, screening can help connect them to services so that they can receive the appropriate level of care they need.”
Gaming Commission Executive Director Robert Williams said, “As the numbers clearly show, more and more New Yorkers of legal age are participating in regulated gaming, and it is incumbent upon the Gaming Commission to ensure that all wagering is conducted fairly and responsibly. In addition to requiring licensed operators to have comprehensive responsible gaming measures in place, we continue to highlight and promote the invaluable resources offered by OASAS and the New York Council on Problem Gambling so that those who need help have access to services.”
New York Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Jim Maney said, “Every day we receive phone calls and emails from those who are experiencing harms caused by gambling. Whether it is a family member or the individual themselves the message is always the same: ‘I need help; Please tell me how to get help.’ The Council is focused this month, and every month, on doing just that. Through Support, Education and Engagement we hope to help New Yorkers S.E.E. they are not alone and that there is a life free from gambling harm waiting for them.”
National Problem Gambling Awareness Month was created by the National Council on Problem Gambling. This year’s theme is “Every Story Matters,” noting that “every narrative, battle and triumph related to problem gambling is significant.”
Throughout the year, the RPP visits gaming facilities across New York State to partner with gaming operators and local service providers to promote responsible gaming practices in their communities.
The RPP was formed to bring all stakeholders together to address problem gambling, including bridging the gap between gaming facility operators and problem gambling treatment providers. The RPP works to ensure that all gaming entities in the state comply with all rules and regulations and provide access to help for individuals who need it. The RPP continues to collaborate to advance New York’s ongoing commitment to prevent and treat problem gambling.
Those seeking help can visit NYProblemGamblingHelp.org or call New York State’s confidential HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369).