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MINNESOTA PROBLEM GAMBLING HELPLINE 1-800-333-4673 (HOPE) • TEXT "HOPE" TO 53342 • CHAT NOW ONLINE info@mnapg.org

ADVOCACY

The Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG), Minnesota’s affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), is a non-profit, gambling-neutral organization dedicated to improving the lives of Minnesotans affected by problem gambling. MNAPG is a coalition of individuals and organizations sharing the belief that problem gambling is a serious public health problem that is both treatable and preventable. MNAPG and NCPG are neutral on the legalization of gambling, but support efforts to minimize the risks associated with gambling and its expansion.

Advocacy Efforts:

  • MNAPG works to raise public awareness about problem gambling and reduce the stigma often associated with it, helping to establish gambling disorder as a public health issue.

  • We advocate for funding for treatment programs, support the development of best practices in counseling and training, and help advance research on the impacts of gambling.

  • MNAPG also supports state and federal legislative efforts that protect consumers, including strengthening responsible gambling and self-exclusion programs. In partnership with national and state affiliates and the National Council on Problem Gambling, we advocate for recognition of gambling disorder as a legitimate addiction and for funding parity with other behavioral health conditions.

  • Together, these efforts help individuals, families and communities address the impacts of gambling-related harm.

ADVOCACY

GAMBLING ISSUES

In May 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the federal ban on sports betting, allowing states to legalize it individually. Since then, sports gambling has expanded rapidly, particularly through online betting and fantasy sports. New formats and wager types continue to emerge, while much of the existing research on problem gambling predates this digital expansion.

Fantasy sports remain a fast-growing segment and are regulated differently than traditional sports betting in Minnesota. MNAPG believes all forms of sports gambling should be subject to appropriate regulation.

Minnesota Problem Gambling Statutes

MNAPG communications

MNAPG maintains communications with the MN Legislature advocating for improved guard rails in any gambling expansion and seeking improvements in the delivery of gambling addiction services.

Online sports betting raises several public health concerns related to problem gambling risk.

Easy access through mobile devices and computers allows people to bet anytime and anywhere, often with little interruption between wagers. This can increase frequency of play and risk for harm. Features like live in-game and micro-betting also shorten the time between bets and outcomes, which may contribute to more impulsive betting patterns.

Research shows that younger people, including teens and young adults, are at higher risk for developing gambling problems, especially with early exposure and widespread availability. Problem gambling rates are also higher among male college students and professional athletes compared to the general population.

Marketing and promotional offers, including bonuses and “risk-free” bets, may further encourage continued play and make it harder for some individuals to stop.

Together, these factors highlight the importance of strong consumer protections and responsible gambling policies.

Responsible gambling focuses on keeping gambling safe, informed and recreational. Problems can develop when gambling is viewed as a way to make money or when individuals spend more than they can afford to lose. Prevention is a key goal, with responsible gambling efforts designed for all players, not just those experiencing harm.

MNAPG encourages all gambling stakeholders to understand the risks and promote safer play. This includes knowing the rules and odds of games, setting limits on time and money, and recognizing when to stop. Operators also play an important role by training staff to identify signs of distress and connect individuals with support resources.

Tools such as self-exclusion programs and other responsible gambling measures can help reduce harm, and MNAPG supports efforts to make these tools accessible and consistent across venues.

We also advocate for strong responsible gambling standards, including staff training, visible resources in gambling environments and meaningful consumer protections in any expansion of gambling in Minnesota.

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