Increase in Online Gaming Causes Concerns in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Sees Record Online Gambling Revenue and Growth, but Concerns Arise

In a significant leap for the gambling industry, Pennsylvania recorded an impressive $2.1 billion in online gambling revenue in 2023, marking a 27% increase year-over-year. This growth has solidified Pennsylvania's position as a leading betting market for the United States.

The expansion of online gambling in the state has been evident in recent years, with more than three dozen retail outlets for gambling and 13 licensed online betting providers, including well-known names such as FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, and ESPNB Bet. The newest additions to the online sports betting platforms in Pennsylvania are FanDuel, DraftKings, BetRivers, and Barstool Sportsbook.

The Pennsylvania Interactive Gaming Assessment: Online Gambling Report, published in 2023, sheds light on the increasing participation in online gambling, with 16% of the population taking part in 2023. The report, authored by Glenn Sterner, an assistant professor of criminal justice with Penn State Abington, and Gillian Russell, an assistant research professor at Penn State Abington, also highlights the vulnerability of the 21- to 30-year-old age group to online gambling issues.

However, the report also raises concerns about the potential negative impacts of the growing online gambling market. The easy access to gambling activities and lack of education may lead to issues for the younger demographic, particularly adolescents and young adults. In fact, the number of calls to the state's gambling helpline related to online gambling issues has increased from 20% in 2021 and 2022 to 34% in 2023.

This trend is not unique to Pennsylvania. Other states, including Illinois and Ohio, have also reported an uptick in the number of calls for help related to online gambling issues. City & State published a report on the increase in calls related to online gambling problems in 2023.

Pennsylvania offers gambling activities such as slot gambling, poker, and sports betting to individuals who are 21 or older. While the revenue generated from online gambling continues to grow, it is crucial to address the concerns surrounding its potential negative impacts on the younger demographic. Education and responsible gambling initiatives are key to ensuring a balanced approach to this growing industry.