It has recently come to my attention that the governor’s 2011-12 budget calls for the reduction and restructuring of Problem Gambling Services in NYS. It appears as though the funding for these programs (approximately $2.4 million statewide) will be completely reduced and likely eliminated.
It is appalling that we are not considering the investment to be worthwhile in preventing gambling problems for our state’s youth. It is outrageous that New York is the only state that does not dedicate funds for prevention and treatment from gambling revenue.
If the NY Lottery alone suspended advertising for just one week, their savings could fund these services throughout the state for an entire year.
I am outraged and hope that others will join me in contacting their state representatives to express their concern over this proposal.
Gambling can lead to problem and compulsive gambling and for the one million New Yorkers and their families who are suffering. The questions we all need to be asking are: How can we as a state benefit from gambling revenue without safeguarding the system by providing services for those at risk? Is this good public policy?
Sincerely,
Eileen Dwyer, LCSW
Executive Director
Department of Education, Diocese of Brooklyn – Drug Prevention Program
Program for the Development of Human Potential
