The legalization of sports betting in more states is leading to an increase in calls to gambling addiction hotlines. Men in their 20s and 30s are among the callers, seeking help for their addiction. Ohio experienced a 55% increase in calls for addiction during the first year of legalized sports betting.
Recently, North Carolina legalized mobile sports betting just in time for popular events like the ACC basketball tournament and March Madness. In the first week of legal betting, nearly $200 million was wagered in the state, according to lottery officials. On the first day alone, over $23.9 million was bet, with almost half of that amount being promotional bets given by sportsbooks to attract new customers.
Bettors in North Carolina earned over $12 million in winnings in the first 12 hours of sports gambling, highlighting the effects of sports betting legalization. As more states continue to legalize sports betting, it is important to address the potential increase in gambling addiction and provide support for those who need it.
