Pennsylvania Add Problem Gambling Protection Option

Sports and online gambling are wonderful forms of adult entertainment in the right hands. In the wrong hands, these forms of gambling can cause problems for the gambler and some of the other people in a gambler's life. That is exactly the reason each state in the US is doing all it can to protect the most vulnerable people in society from gambling problems.

In the state of Pennsylvania, it's the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) that holds the primary responsibility for making sure the state's gambling industry adheres to all rules and regulations. That includes making sure that both land-based and online casino operators have measures in place to make sure problem gamblers have access to resources to help them fight their gambling addictions.

With this responsibility in mind, the PGCB has launched an updated website that provides information to help gamblers and family members know how to recognize the warning signs of a gambling problem. Also, the information is intended to help point out where problem gamblers can go to get the help they need.

According to Elizabeth Lanza, Director of the PGCB’s Office of Compulsive and Problem Gambling in a statement to the press: “Gambling addiction is real, is preventable and is treatable, and the PGCB and its partners want all PA citizens who face the perils of problem gambling to know that treatment is available and effective. This includes the launch of a new website with easy-to-find information on detecting a gambling problem along with various avenues available for help."

This is really good for a growing gambling industry that seems to have a legitimate concern about protecting people who may be struggling with a gambling problem. It represents that all vested parties want to see the industry succeed while not doing so at the expense of problem gamblers and family members who might have to share in their loved one's difficulties.

The new website address is available to interested parties at www.ResponsiblePlay.pa.gov. It can also be accessed via a link on the homepage of the PGCB’s website.

To its credit, the PGCB has displayed a long term commitment to making its state one of the safest states in American as it relates to responsible gambling. This was confirmed by Gaming Control Board Executive Director Kevin F. O’Toole, who stated: "Our agency has made outreach for individuals with gambling disorders a priority since the opening of the first casinos in Pennsylvania over 13 years ago."