Gambling costs unpredictable
1st November, 2007
In Massachusetts, USA, state officials have said that it is still too early to predict the costs of gambling on society.
Estimates put the number of problem gamblers at between 123,000 and 250,000. With the legalisation of slot machines looking likely, this number could swell dramatically and with no recent polls done, there is no way to know if these numbers are accurate.
Opinions are divided on the matter, some still want to push ahead with current plans, saying that there is not enough evidence to suggest that the new laws will have an impact on society. "This does not mean, however, that we will see this percentage increase in the prevalence of gambling disorders," said Botticelli.
With a vast majority of gamblers never developing a problem is it fair to penalise those who play for fun and without risk? "Would it be like banning MacDonalds because a small percentage of those who eat it are obese?"
Many Senators believe it is unfair to to discuss the possible negative consequences before the bill has a public hearing, which is not scheduled until next year.
