Ohio’s problem gambling hotline received 55% more calls last year after launching legal sports betting. [Image: Shutterstock.com]
The number of times people called Ohio’s problem gambling helpline in 2023 rose 55% year-over-year. The total number of calls over the 12-month period reached 10,637, according to Ohio Responsible Gambling, up from 6,835 in 2022. Legal sports betting in the state launched on January 1, 2023.
Other states saw the same trend after the launch of legal sports betting
Michael Bozzelli, associate director of the Ohio Problem Gambling Network, acknowledged that the number of calls is expected to increase as other states have seen the same trend after legal sports betting went live. He still notes that “such a large increase was surprising” and that a lot of work needs to be done to develop a safer environment for bettors.
A new study also highlights that Ohio’s problem gambling rate has tripled since 2012, mirroring the national trend. The study, conducted by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services in collaboration with Ohio Responsible Gambling, found that more than 1.8 million residents fall into an at-risk category.
