Virginia's iGaming Legalization Could Trigger Job Losses and Addiction Surge, Report Warns
The Association pointed to data, suggesting iGaming leads to an uptick in harm, especially among young adults
Oliver Barie, NAAiG's Government Relations Director, speaks about the potential dangers of legal online casinos
The organization dedicated to protecting communities from the risks associated with online gambling by advocating for responsible, in-person gaming, the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG), is raising awareness about the potential dangers of iGaming in Virginia.
The Association released a new report, highlighting the devastating impact online gambling legalization may have and confirming it is available for interviews to discuss the hot topic.
iGaming increases problem gambling, brings harm
Notably, NAAiG cited data from VCU Health, revealing that since 2019, the calls to Virginia's problem gambling helpline from young adults, between 18 and 24, have increased by a staggering 63%.
This, the Association said, signals "growing harm among young adults," as explained in a press release.
Not unexpectedly, online sports betting was the most commonly cited form of gambling by those who sought help in Virginia.
This, according to NAAiG, means that the legalization of iGaming is going to bring even greater harm.
NAAiG also pointed to a study by Rutgers, revealing that the problem-gambling rate in New Jersey increased by a threefold rate when compared to the national average after 10 years of legal online gambling.
Online gambling legalization in Virginia will be disastrous, NAAiG predicts
Focusing on Virginia once again, NAAiG cited a report by The Innovation Group, which estimates a $220m annual loss in public education funding would be the direct result of online gambling legalization, which would cannibalize iLottery.
Equally as concerning, the same report predicts that if Virginia lawmakers legalize online casinos, some 2,300 residents may lose their jobs.
Not only will iGaming affect jobs and public education funding, but it is likely going to "devastate Virginia hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and local business vendors that count on brick-and-mortar casinos and racinos," the Association warns.
Oliver Barie, NAAiG's Government Relations Director, commented: "The catastrophic hit to public education funding and local jobs doesn't even include the damage that will be done to young people from underage and problem gambling".
"The legalization of iGaming will be disastrous for Virginia. The commonwealth cannot afford the devastating consequences of putting a casino in everyone's pocket," he said in conclusion.
