The gambling industry has a foothold in the State of New York. However, it was not always that way. In fact, New York was the first state to disallow gambling in 1821 except for horse racing. In the 1860s, the state legalized gambling. At the same time, it had to deal with gambling addiction. 

In the 1990s, New York legalized casinos. As a result, the number of problem gamblers increased in the state. Although there are laws to ensure problem gamblers get help when they need it, many people believe the programs are inefficient.  

At present, New York decided to investigate its gambling addiction problem. Also, the state government wants to develop programs to treat gambling addiction based on the results of the investigation. 

Gambling Addiction in New York

According to studies, around 50 million Americans bet on sports events, in casinos, buy lottery tickets, or play games for charity. Most gamblers see the activity as a form of entertainment. In fact, they spend money and stop when they lose. Want to know how to be a successful bookie? You should learn to make the user experience more enjoyable for players. 

However, around one to two percent of the population suffers from gambling addiction. The state comptroller’s office told industry news outlets that it doesn’t know the exact number of problem gamblers in New York. However, it estimates the number to be around 195,000 to 390,000. 

New York allows all types of gambling. In fact, there are 25 casinos within state borders. You can find most casinos around the North Country and New York City. Also, horse racing is popular in the state. The Belmont Stakes, one of the Triple Crown races, takes place in Elmont, New York.

The state comptroller wants a new assessment of services available for gambling addiction treatment. Thomas Di Napoli told to bookie pay per head operators that there might not be enough programs for problem gamblers in the state.