Dr. Carolyn Hawley, the executive director of the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling, has been spearheading efforts to strengthen responsible gaming programs in Virginia. She is also a key member of the state’s Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Advisory Committee, which focuses on developing best practices for preventing and treating problem gambling.
One of the key initiatives that Dr. Hawley has been involved in is the Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health, a coalition of stakeholders dedicated to improving treatment and recovery services for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. According to Dr. Hawley, Virginia’s enrollment rate for players seeking help has been significantly higher than the national average, showcasing the effectiveness of the state’s resources.
Since the authorization of historical horse racing machines and commercial casinos in 2018, Virginia has seen a surge in calls to the state’s problem gambling helpline. Dr. Hawley reported a nearly 1,000% increase in calls since 2019, highlighting the growing need for support services in the state. The Virginia Partnership for Gaming and Health received 166 referrals in the first quarter of 2024 alone, indicating the demand for therapeutic support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
While Dr. Hawley remains optimistic about the progress being made in Virginia’s responsible gaming programs, some lawmakers have expressed concerns about the sharp increase in gamblers seeking help. State Del. Paul Krizek, in particular, has raised alarms about the surge in self-help gambling calls, especially as Virginia’s commercial gaming industry continues to expand.
Del. Krizek has been advocating for measures to address the potential risks associated with gambling, including restrictions on subsequent referendums in cities where voters have rejected casino proposals. Additionally, he has voiced opposition to skill games, which have been a contentious issue in the state since the Virginia Supreme Court ruled against their operation last fall.
Governor Glenn Youngkin’s recent veto of legislation aimed at regulating skill games reflects the ongoing debate surrounding the gaming industry in Virginia. The governor has emphasized the need for consumer protections and buffer zones around sensitive areas like churches and schools to mitigate the potential negative impacts of these games.
Overall, the efforts to enhance responsible gaming programs in Virginia are gaining momentum, with Dr. Hawley and her team leading the way in providing essential support services for problem gamblers across the state. The increasing enrollment rates and referrals to treatment facilities underscore the importance of these initiatives in addressing gambling addiction and promoting healthier gaming habits among players.
