One year after sports betting became legal in Ohio, we are seeing enormous amounts of spending that we expect will only grow.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission reports indicate that nearly $848 million in taxable revenue was brought into the state from sports gaming January through November 2023.
Ohio’s Legislative Service Commission estimates that sports betting eventually will become a multibillion-dollar industry in Ohio.
“Sports betting has been a welcome addition to our property, which now offers VLT (video lottery terminal) gaming, horse racing, Ohio Lottery games, dining and live entertainment providing yet another option for guests in the Mahoning Valley to take in when visiting us,” Kevin Brogan, director of marketing at Hollywood Gaming, recently told a Youngstown reporter.
It should be noted that some of the gambling revenue goes to a good cause — to the Ohio Sports Gaming Profit Veterans Fund.
It all sounds great, and certainly it can bring some excitement to our state, along with revenue into our state. But the hope for quick wealth and prosperity, coupled with all the excitement, has us concerned.
Let’s face it, the dangers of gaming are very, very real. And we assume those risks have increased right along with the betting revenue.
Sure, it can bring a thrill and some quick cash, but we caution that sports betting also can be dangerous and quickly spiral out of control, particularly for compulsive gamblers.
That’s why we remind those who dabble in Ohio gaming to include realistic personal spending limits, and stick to it.
Gambling addiction counselors and experts advise compulsive gamblers to talk to their health care provider or seek help from a mental health professional.
The Mayo Clinic offers these recovery skills that may help resist urges of compulsive gambling.
• Stay focused on your No. 1 goal: Not to gamble.
• Tell yourself it’s too risky to gamble at all. One bet typically leads to another and another.
• Give yourself permission to ask for help, as sheer willpower isn’t enough to overcome compulsive gambling. Ask a family member or friend to encourage you to follow your treatment plan.
• Recognize and then avoid situations that trigger your urge to bet.
• Family members of people with a compulsive gambling problem may benefit from counseling, even if the gambler is unwilling to participate in therapy.
If you think you or someone you know has a gambling problem, the National Council on Problem Gambling operates a confidential 24/7 hotline and text line at 1-800-522-4700.
Also, Ohio for Responsible Gambling offers help. It can be reached online at ohio.gov/responsible-gambling or by calling 1-800-589-9966.
Make 2024 a good year. Enjoy it, but be smart and be cautious.
