Gambling Apps: A Hidden Crisis in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Online Gambling Surge Leads to Financial Ruin
Pennsylvania and New Jersey are grappling with a worsening gambling addiction problem, driven largely by online apps. Many individuals are facing significant debts and financial ruin as more people engage in sports betting and casino games on their mobile devices.
Alarming Statistics
- Revenue Growth: In 2024, online gambling generated over $6 billion in these two states, up from $3.6 billion in 2021.
- Helpline Calls: Calls to gambling helplines have surged. In Pennsylvania, calls about online gambling problems increased by 180%, while in New Jersey, the rise was 160%.
Philadelphia: The Epicenter of Online Gambling Ads
The Philadelphia area has become the top market for online gambling advertisements. Companies spent over $37 million on ads in just nine months. The consequences are severe, with many individuals losing their homes, jobs, and savings.
The Scope of the Problem
- Problem Gamblers: Approximately 6% of Pennsylvanians, or 785,000 people, are identified as problem gamblers.
- Financial Losses: In New Jersey, callers reported losing millions of dollars, with some losing their life savings in a single night.
Young People at Risk
The addiction is also affecting younger generations. In New Jersey, more than half of the callers to gambling hotlines were under 35. In Pennsylvania, individuals under 35 made up 41% of callers.
Calls for Regulation
Some lawmakers are advocating for stricter regulations, arguing that the industry targets young people and needs better oversight. Online gambling now accounts for nearly half of all gambling revenue in Pennsylvania, with $8.3 billion bet on sports alone in the last fiscal year.
Expert Warnings
Experts caution that the problem will continue to worsen unless immediate action is taken. They urge lawmakers to intervene to support those struggling with addiction, highlighting the real and devastating impact on many lives.
