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State of Play
- This holiday season, thoughtful gifting extends beyond material presents to include awareness around gambling habits.
- An Illinois statewide campaign is urging the public to gift responsibly by considering the risks associated with problem gambling.
Anita Pindiur, executive director of The Way Back Inn, is leading a campaign designed to raise awareness about problem gambling across the state. She highlights the importance of considering the impacts of gambling when giving gifts during the holidays.
Pindiur says look for the signs of problem gambling – showing frustration or anger during games, or someone constantly looking at their phones – before giving them a gift card for online casino gaming, sports betting, or lottery scratch-offs.
This initiative aims to educate the public on recognizing problem gambling signs, and Pinduir encourages safer, more responsible gambling gifts be given this holiday season.
Operators should also be promoting RG during holiday season
The campaign serves as a crucial reminder to be mindful of the potential harm excessive gambling can cause.
Operators and gaming entities are also positioned to reinforce responsible gaming messages and support awareness efforts.
By promoting education on gambling risks, the campaign helps foster a healthier gambling environment, especially at a time when holiday spending and gift-giving are at their peak.
Based on reporting by WGN.
