Some Experts Fear Missouri is Not Ready for Problem Gambling

The Show-Me State is getting ready to launch its sports betting market, but is it prepared for the coinciding spike in problem gambling?

If you ask some responsible gaming experts, they are not. While Missouri plans to utilize tax revenue from the industry to bolster its resources, it will take time. That will leave a long window where bettors struggling with problem gambling will be challenged to receive the right help.

Sports betting is set to launch in the state on December 1.

Mental Health Industry is Unprepared

Missouri is known for having a shortage of mental health support programs. While those seeking help can find counseling services, they often struggle to provide the necessary support. Daniel Smith, who previously ran a gambling counseling program, shared this fear during an interview with NPR. 

“The biggest problem that occurs with someone seeking help is that they go to a well-meaning counselor who doesn't know anything about gambling,” Smith said. “The state of treatment in Missouri, I hope, will change.”

Free Help for Gambling Addiction Now Scarce

Daniel Smith, whom we quoted above, used to be the clinical director for the BetNoMore Gambling Programs at Assessment and Counseling Solutions. It was one of about six gambling-focused programs that offered free services in the state. Unfortunately, those have all closed down before they would be needed the most.

We expect Missouri to address this as quickly as possible, given the large portion of the population that remains opposed, or at least concerned, about legal sports betting. With several vocal opponents to the industry remaining in the state legislature, we expect them to be closely watching problem gambling numbers.

Is Sports Betting the Solution?

While sports betting proponents were pushing to legalize the industry, they showed that many residents were already gambling. They were using offshore sportsbooks or traveling across state lines, working around the state’s ban on the industry. This not only showed that the public wanted legal sports betting, but also that problem gambling is already an issue.

While sports betting will likely lead to a spike in the issue, it will also be a crucial driving force for improving problem gambling resources. Some of the tax revenue from sportsbooks will go towards funding responsible gaming initiatives, leading to more groups joining the new market. Combine that with the tools that online operators will be bringing, and there is a strong argument that the industry will help improve on an existing problem.