New gambling options bring some downside
The Connecticut Sun beat the Chicago Sky on Thursday in the WNBA playoffs, which was of interest to basketball fans in this state and beyond. Of possibly greater interest was how much the Sun won by — the nine-point margin of victory meant that the Sun beat the spread, which was 7.5 points. That was enough to make Gov. Ned Lamont a winner.
Lamont had earlier in the day placed the ceremonial first wager in the state’s new sports betting system, wagering $50 on the home-state Sun. The team’s win put the governor in the black — for a while, at least.
State officials sounded triumphant in announcing the long-awaited arrival of legalized sports betting, which came after years of negotiations. For now, sports betting is only available in-person at the two tribal casinos, but soon everyone over 18 will be able to place a bet on their phone.
Among beneficiaries will be the state budget. Online sports betting is expected to bring in about $19 million in the first year and $23 million in tax revenue in the second year, but Lamont said that number could rise to $100 million. That will help make up for a decline in slot machine revenue, a portion of which goes to the state, which has been down since the start of the pandemic.
It’s to their credit that state officials have acknowledged pitfalls. Problem gambling is serious, and when legalized wagering is as close as a cellphone, the potential for harm is that much greater.
But there’s reason to think the downsides could be higher than the state is anticipating.
According to studies, online gambling can contribute to the development or worsening of gambling problems. People who partake are more likely to report harm to their well-being, finances and relationships. Other issues include sleep problems and other physical and mental health challenges, such as stress, lower self-esteem, anxiety and depression. Also, people who gamble online are reportedly less likely to seek help when compared to people who engage in more traditional forms of gambling.
None of this is a secret. Nor does it necessarily mean that changing the gambling structure to better fit modern needs is a bad idea. But we have to be aware that there are tradeoffs, and whatever gains come from this new policy, there will be some drawbacks, too.
According to its website, the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling offers a free, online live chat service, Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to midnight, and on weekends from noon to midnight. People can also call one of the CT Problem Gambling Helplines directly at 888-789- 7777 or 8003466238.
The state has been bombarded with advertisements for its new gambling options, and enthusiasm in some quarters is running high. Sports media, too, has become inextricably intwined with the world of gambling, with daily shows dedicated to wagering on every aspect of games.
Connecticut’s new policy will generate some wins, but there will also inevitably be costs. It’s important for everyone to be aware of the warning signs, and for the state to prepare to help people in need.
Problem gambling is serious, and when legalized wagering is as close as a cellphone, the potential for harm is that much greater.