Gambling
Gambling Reform in the UK: Can It Battle Gambling Addiction?

Gambling addiction has become a significant concern in the UK, with increasing numbers of individuals affected by its adverse consequences. In response to mounting public pressure, the government has recognized the urgency of addressing this issue through gambling reform.
This article examines the potential of gambling reform in the UK as a crucial step in battling gambling addiction. It also explores the key measures being considered and their potential impact on individuals and society.
Tighter Regulation and Consumer Protection
The introduction of stricter restrictions and more consumer protection is one of the main goals of the gaming reform. The UK Gambling Commission has recommended steps include restricting the amount of money that may be wagered online, outlawing the use of credit cards for gambling transactions and improving age verification procedures. These programs seek to improve gambling safety by lowering the possibility that weaker people would fall prey to addiction.
Enhanced Treatment and Support Services
The increase in support and treatment options for those who are addicted to gambling is a key component of gambling reform. The government has pledged to increase financing for gambling addiction treatment, making sure that individuals in need have access to enough services. Individuals may get the treatment they need to beat their addiction and restore control of their life by investing in counseling, helplines and specialized support programs.
Collaboration with the Industry
Effective gambling reform necessitates cooperation and collaboration with the gambling industry itself. The government is working closely with gambling operators to promote responsible gambling practices and implement self-exclusion programs. Encouraging online casinos to adopt ethical marketing strategies when it comes to offering sign up bonuses to new players, provide transparent odds and offer tools for gamblers to set limits on their spending can contribute to a safer gambling environment.
Measuring Success and Ongoing Challenges
Assessing the effectiveness of gambling reform measures is crucial to ensuring their long-term impact. Regular evaluations and monitoring can provide valuable insights into the progress made and areas that require further attention. However, the road to combating gambling addiction is not without its challenges. The online gambling landscape continues to evolve rapidly, necessitating ongoing adaptability in regulations. International cooperation is also vital to address issues related to offshore gambling platforms and advertising.
Conclusion
Fighting the pervasive problem of gambling addiction has advanced thanks to gaming reform in the UK. By implementing tougher regulations, enhancing consumer protection, expanding treatment and support services and promoting prevention via education, the government hopes to create a gaming environment that is safer and more responsible.
Collaboration between the government, corporations and other stakeholders is essential for the success of these measures. Despite continued challenges, the commitment to treating gambling addiction and improving both individual and societal welfare is promoting the growth of a more responsible gambling culture in the UK.
ADG
The Arizona Department of Gaming, Arizona Lottery, and the National Council of Problem Gambling Recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month

The Arizona Department of Gaming (“ADG”), Division of Problem Gambling (“DPG”), in collaboration with the National Council of Problem Gambling (“NCPG”), recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month. 2025 marks the 22nd anniversary of Problem Gambling Awareness Month. The theme of this year’s campaign, “Seeking Understanding,” focuses on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition. The campaign seeks to foster greater awareness and empathy, break down barriers to treatment, and provide support for individuals and families impacted by gambling-related harm.
“Problem gambling is a serious issue that impacts thousands of Arizonans, including families and young people,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “As Governor, I am committed to raising awareness and ensuring that those struggling with problem gambling have access to the resources and support they need.”
Problem gambling, defined as gambling behaviors that disrupt or damage personal, family, or professional lives, affects millions of Americans. Nationally, approximately 2.5 million U.S. adults meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem, with an additional 5 to 8 million individuals experiencing mild to moderate gambling problems.
In fiscal year 2024 (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024), Arizona’s Division of Problem Gambling provided 3 trainings for clinical providers and connected 992 people across the state to treatment. In the same period, DPG provided $1.3 million to support treatment of individuals affected by problem gambling. This past fiscal year, DPG continued to work with Arizona stakeholders to implement its self-exclusion program for event wagering & fantasy sports (“EWFS”), which allows those who may struggle with gambling to exclude themselves from these games statewide. DPG self-exclusion staff work with tribal gaming facilities and EWFS operators on a daily basis to update the patron self-exclusion list. In FY2024, this resulted in a total of 519 self-exclusions enrolled, bringing the total in Arizona to 2,230.
Today, DPG hosted the 17th Annual Symposium on Problem Gambling in Phoenix, Arizona, with the theme: “Envisioning the Future: A Comprehensive Approach from History to Innovation.”
“Bringing together innovators, leaders, and decision-makers face-to-face is vital to fostering meaningful dialogue and driving impactful change,” said Jackie Johnson, ADG Director. “Our annual DPG Symposium is designed to facilitate discussions, share best practices, and cultivate strategic collaborations. These are key elements in advancing DPG’s mission to provide effective problem gambling prevention, treatment, and education programs as part of the Department’s broader efforts to mitigate gambling-related harms.”
“We are deeply grateful to Governor Katie Hobbs for once again proclaiming March as Arizona Problem Gambling Awareness Month,” said Elise Mikkelsen, Director of the Division of Problem Gambling. “We recognize that disparities in access to services and treatment outcomes continue to impact historically underrepresented communities, and we want every Arizonan to know—they are not alone. Through DPG’s free, 24/7 confidential helpline and online resources, individuals across the state can take the first step toward getting the support they need.”
“The Arizona Lottery is dedicated to supporting initiatives that alleviate problem gambling as an addition that can impact individuals from all walks of life,” said Arizona Lottery Executive Director Alec Thomson. “That’s why we remain committed to promoting responsible gaming by increasing awareness of problem gambling, recognizing its warning signs, and ensuring that vital resources are available to those in need.” The Arizona Lottery has contributed $6 million to ADG to support statewide problem gambling prevention, treatment, and education programs.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, DPG urges you to get help now by calling 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1.800.639.8783), DPG’s confidential helpline, texting “NEXTSTEP” to 53342, or utilizing a chat feature on the DPG website. DPG’s helpline provides confidentiality and connects callers with a master’s level counselor who can connect them with available resources, including statewide treatment providers who specialize in problem gambling. The helpline is available 24/7 to everyone facing a problem with gambling – individuals and affected family members, friends, or co-workers.
The post The Arizona Department of Gaming, Arizona Lottery, and the National Council of Problem Gambling Recognize March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Dr. Joshua Grubbs
New study links sports gambling with alcohol-related risks over time

A new longitudinal study published in JAMA Psychiatry finds that sports gambling frequency and alcohol-related problems are strongly associated over time, reinforcing concerns about the potential health risks of concurrent gambling and drinking behaviors.
The study, funded by the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), analyzed data from over 4,300 U.S. adults over two years. Researchers found that while alcohol-related problems slightly decreased over time, fluctuations in sports gambling frequency were closely tied to changes in alcohol-related harms. These findings suggest that individuals who engage in both activities may be at heightened risk of developing problematic drinking behaviors.
“These results emphasize the need for screening and intervention strategies targeting sports gamblers who also drink,” said lead author Dr. Joshua B. Grubbs of the University of New Mexico. “It is quite likely that these behaviors are interacting in such a way that may increase the risks associated with both. Given the increasing accessibility of sports gambling in the U.S., understanding the health implications of these behaviors is critical.”
The ICRG, the largest independent funder of gambling research in the United States, has supported multiple studies aimed at understanding the risks associated with sports wagering. Dr. Grubbs’ latest research builds on his extensive body of work, which has resulted in 12 peer-reviewed publications examining gambling behaviors, addiction risks, and responsible gambling strategies. Supported by ICRG funding, his studies have significantly contributed to the understanding of these critical issues.
Among prior ICRG-supported findings:
- Sports bettors are at a higher risk for addiction than other gambling groups, with a strong connection to binge drinking. (JAMA Network Open, 2024)
- Impulsivity is a key predictor of high-risk gambling behaviors, underscoring the need for targeted intervention strategies. (Addictive Behaviors, 2024)
- Responsible gambling strategies must be tailored to different types of sports betting, as not all forms carry the same level of risk. (Journal of Gambling Studies, 2024)
- Marginalized communities face unique gambling challenges, requiring culturally sensitive harm-reduction strategies. (Addictive Behaviors, 2023)
“As sports gambling continues to expand, research like this is essential for understanding the broader public health implications,” said Art Paikowsky, President at ICRG. “ICRG remains committed to funding rigorous, independent studies that contribute to evidence-based solutions for responsible gambling.”
This study is part of an ongoing effort to assess gambling behaviors over time. Additional papers from this dataset are currently under peer review.
The post New study links sports gambling with alcohol-related risks over time appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
ADG
Attention: Important Information from the Arizona Department of Gaming Regarding Reporting Gambling Winnings on Taxes

The Arizona Department of Gaming (“ADG”) has received inquiries from patrons seeking to verify the legitimacy of companies that are issuing tax forms for gambling winnings. As a result, the ADG wants to take this opportunity to remind Arizonans to be cautious this tax season and to thoroughly review and investigate any requests from anyone purporting to be the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).
The ADG would like to remind Arizonans that if they participate in casino gambling, parimutuel/simulcast wagering, event wagering, and/or fantasy sports, they may receive a W-2G or 1099-MISC form for their winnings. It is important to be aware that the gambling institution that you choose to participate in gaming activities with will be the payor, and the payor is responsible for issuing the tax form. The ADG
advises that Arizonans keep accurate records of any winnings from all gambling activities throughout the year to avoid any confusion during tax season. It is further recommended that Arizonans consult a tax professional if they have any questions about income reporting requirements to ensure they file an accurate tax return.
To help ensure Arizonans are aware of common tax scams, the ADG advises Arizonans to review the
following links and articles on the IRS website discussing common tax scams for 2025:
- As stated on the IRS website, the IRS will make initial contact with a taxpayer through a letter
sent via the United States Postal Service. Be wary of anyone purporting to be the IRS or ADG
contacting you by phone, email, or social media requesting personal or financial information. - If you receive a letter from someone purporting to be the IRS, you can verify that the letter is
legitimate through the IRS website. - Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2025: IRS warns taxpayers to watch out for dangerous threats.
- Misleading social media advice leads to false claims for Fuel Tax Credit, Sick and Family Leave
Credit, household employment taxes; FAQs help address common questions, next steps for those
receiving IRS letters.
What to Do If You Encounter Fraud or Identity Theft:
If you believe you or someone you know has been targeted by fraudulent payors or individuals
purporting to be the IRS, file a consumer complaint by visiting azag.gov/consumer. You can also find the
contact information for the Arizona Attorney General’s Office below:
- Phoenix: (602) 542-5763
- Tucson: (520) 628-6648
- Statewide: (800) 352-8431
For more information, check out the Department’s related news releases from this past year:
- ADG PSA: Tips for Safe and Responsible Online Gaming
- Please Remain Vigilant: Department PSA on Gaming Scam Calls
The post Attention: Important Information from the Arizona Department of Gaming Regarding Reporting Gambling Winnings on Taxes appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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