"Now, what did our Commission find? In addition to the conclusions already shared, we were unanimous in calling for more research and for greater efforts to treat afflicted individuals. Gambling entrepreneurs and state treasuries make tremendous profits from compulsive gamblers. In fact, our survey of 530 patrons at gambling establishments around the country found that more than 13 percent were problem or pathological gamblers, while another 18 percent were classified as “at risk.” If those numbers are accurate, 31 percent of all people patronizing casinos and other gambling facilities are in trouble. By contrast, states contribute only a pittance (one-tenth of one percent) of the money they rake in from gambling — a substantial amount of which comes from addicts — to help those harmed by it. It is time that the various gambling entities and the states that feed on troubled individuals begin cleaning up the mess they have created. We hope to help bring about that change."
In Minnesota, we have found most gamblers are from the lower socio-economic groups (especially lottery players) and the incidence of property crimes has been rising ever since we put casinos in.
Good point. Before the casinos went in (I believe it was) New Jersey, the gamblers promised prosperity to the surrounding community. But the surrounding community did not realize jobs, tax benefits, etc. The casinos imported their help, and the neighborhoods deteriorated from the influx of prostitutes, street crime, etc.