How Virginia is addressing the dark side of gambling

The expansion of casinos and the rise of online gambling platforms in Virginia have sparked growing concerns about problem gambling, particularly among the state’s younger population. As gambling options become more accessible, experts warn that the number of young people falling into addiction is on the rise, leading to severe financial, emotional, and social consequences.

“Problem gambling is not just a personal problem. It’s a family, community and state problem. One individual that struggles with gambling-related harm negatively impacts eight to 10 other individuals,” Brianne Doura-Schawohl, vice president of U.S. Policy and Strategic Development for global harm prevention consultancy EPIC Risk Management, said at a recent meeting of the newly created Joint Subcommittee to Study the Feasibility of Establishing the Virginia Gaming Commission in Richmond.

Doura-Schawohl warned the panel that about 5% of people who actively gamble will suffer from problematic gambling at some point.

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