Arizona fights underage gambling with new Too Young To Bet campaign

Arizona launches Too Young To Bet AZ to curb underage gambling risks

Arizona has launched its first statewide campaign to tackle underage gambling. Called Too Young To Bet AZ, the initiative aims to keep betting products away from minors and reinforce that gambling is strictly for adults aged 21 and over. The effort comes as concerns grow over rising youth exposure to sports betting, online gaming, and lottery-style gifts. The Arizona Department of Gaming and its Division of Problem Gambling introduced the campaign with support from the National Council on Problem Gambling. Officials warn that many children are exposed to gambling early, often through seemingly harmless activities. Fantasy sports, scratch tickets given as presents, and online games with betting-like features can normalise risky behaviour before kids reach their teens.

Recent studies show that over one in six adolescents has gambled in the past year. Some report trying it as young as ten. Elise Mikkelsen, director of the Division of Problem Gambling, stresses the need for honest discussions between parents and children about the dangers of betting. She notes that open conversations can help deter underage gambling before it starts. The campaign targets multiple risks, including social media ads, influencer promotions, and in-game purchases like loot boxes. These features often blur the line between gaming and gambling, making it harder for young people to spot the difference. Jackie Johnson, director of the Arizona Department of Gaming, highlights how casual betting culture—from office pools to mobile apps—has made gambling more accessible to minors. *Too Young To Bet AZ* encourages families, schools, and community groups to work together. The initiative provides tools to spot early warning signs and prevent underage gambling. Arizona joins 12 other US states, including New Jersey, New York, and California, which have rolled out similar programs since 2023. These efforts range from school workshops to age-verification tech for betting apps and partnerships with youth organisations like the Boys & Girls Clubs.

The campaign will focus on education, public service announcements, and practical resources for parents and teachers. Its goal is to reduce youth gambling by making adults more aware of how and where minors encounter betting. With online gaming and sports wagering on the rise, officials say proactive measures are essential to protect young people.