New York Initiates 10-Year Gambling Study as Bill Restricting Addiction Treatment Moves Forward

(AsiaGameHub) –   New York Governor Kathy Hochul has revealed a new decade-long initiative to study gambling habits and evaluate the effectiveness of addiction treatment. Simultaneously, a legislative proposal is moving forward that would prevent gambling operators from suggesting their own help resources to individuals facing addiction.

The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) will manage this 10-year research project. A randomized group of adult residents across the state will be invited to participate.

The study’s objective is to better understand the frequency of gambling issues and how aware the public is of the risks involved.

Furthermore, the Assembly Racing and Wagering Committee has cleared a bill that would grant OASAS sole authority over problem gambling treatment referrals.

Should it become law, this measure would bar gambling firms from pointing those in need toward any treatment options other than those sanctioned by the state.

Safeguarding Residents from Gambling-Related Risks

OASAS manages a variety of support services throughout New York, ranging from community programs to no-cost financial advice.

“With the growth of gambling in our state, we must take a proactive stance to identify where more help is required for those struggling with addiction,” stated Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, OASAS Commissioner, in a recent statement.

Conducted biennially, the study will reach out to selected individuals via mail or phone to participate in the “New York State Well-Being & Life Survey.”

Cunningham noted that the data collected will shape future strategies to ensure New Yorkers are shielded from harm and can easily find necessary support.

New York leads the nation in betting volume, with residents wagering over $26 billion in the past year. This reflects a 15.8% rise compared to 2024, marking the most significant annual growth since the 2022 debut of mobile sports betting.

The Debate Over Restricting Treatment Choices

While the survey is designed to “support the ongoing development and delivery of prevention and recovery programs,” the proposed Assembly Bill 9146 would restrict the variety of services available to gamblers beyond state-run options.

Under existing regulations, digital sportsbooks must display OASAS contact details. However, they are currently permitted to suggest external counselors or services that may not be OASAS-certified, located within the state, or provided for free.

For instance, platforms like DraftKings often recommend Kindbridge Behavioral Health, a service that claims to mitigate gambling symptoms while improving mental resilience.

Potential Conflicts of Interest

The sponsor of AB9146, Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner, argues that ties between betting companies and treatment providers are problematic.

“This presents a potential conflict between the mobile sports operator’s interest in generating revenue by the number of bets placed and lost versus an individual’s need for help to limit or stop gambling,” said Woerner.

It is worth noting that OASAS also relies on gambling revenue. New York imposes a nation-leading 51% tax on gambling earnings, a portion of which is allocated to the agency.

Additionally, the state is considering the legalization of online casinos. Projections indicate that operators could see revenues between $2.5 billion and $4.5 billion annually. If passed, $11 million of the state’s tax share would be dedicated to problem gambling treatment and education.

“New York remains dedicated to supporting anyone affected by problem gambling, regardless of their background,” Governor Hochul remarked.

She added that the state looks forward to using the survey’s data to inform strategic investments that protect citizens and improve access to essential care.