Pennsylvania Gaming Board Urged by Addiction Specialists to Reconsider Self-Exclusion Policy
Addiction specialists and mental health treatment providers are urging gaming regulators in Pennsylvania to rethink a proposed amendment to the state’s self-exclusion program for casino gambling. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) is considering a change that would automatically reinstate gaming privileges for individuals who have previously excluded themselves from casinos, without requiring them to file for reinstatement.
Proposed Change Sparks Controversy
In October, the PGCB put forth a proposal to alter the current self-exclusion protocol for casino gambling. Presently, individuals who voluntarily exclude themselves from casinos must apply to have their gaming privileges reinstated after their exclusion period ends. This process is necessary for both one- and five-year exclusions, while lifetime bans cannot be reversed at the individual’s request.
The PGCB argues that the current filing requirement leads to some excluded individuals unknowingly entering casinos after their exclusion period expires. To address this issue, the board is considering automatic restoration of gaming privileges for self-excluded individuals, aligning with existing protocols for iGaming, video gaming terminals (VGTs), and fantasy sports.
Treatment Providers Express Concern
Following the PGCB’s proposal, the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) and other addiction professionals voiced their opposition. Amy Hubbard, manager of the DDAP’s Compulsive Problem Gambling Section, emphasized the risks associated with automatic restoration of gaming privileges for individuals in recovery from problem gambling. Hubbard highlighted the importance of allowing individuals to maintain their self-exclusion commitments as a crucial aspect of their recovery journey.
Ken Martz, president of the Pennsylvania Association of Addiction Professionals, echoed Hubbard’s sentiments. While acknowledging the need for changes to the state’s self-exclusion programs, Martz suggested standardizing self-exclusion policies across all gaming platforms to ensure consistency and support for individuals struggling with gambling behaviors.
Relapse Risk Concerns
Despite the PGCB’s assertion that the proposed change aims to protect self-excluded individuals from trespassing charges and reduce administrative burdens, mental health and addiction counselors warn of increased relapse risks. Counselors from the Better Institute highlighted the potential consequences of relapse, including financial ruin, relationship breakdowns, and even suicide. They argued that the proposed policy change could make it easier for individuals to return to gambling environments, undermining efforts to self-protect and recover from problem gambling.
Casino Industry Response
While the state’s casinos have largely refrained from commenting on the proposed change, concerns have been raised about the potential targeting of newly reinstated excluded players if the PGCB’s proposal is implemented.
In conclusion, the debate over the proposed change to Pennsylvania’s casino self-exclusion program underscores the importance of balancing consumer protection with support for individuals in recovery from problem gambling. As stakeholders continue to weigh in on the issue, the PGCB faces the challenge of finding a solution that addresses the needs of both self-excluded individuals and the broader gaming community.
