Addicts Live Closer to Slot Machines

The Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania is concerned with their slot machine players. According to a recent National Gaming Impact Study Commission, if you live within 50 miles of a slot machine or casino, you have a much higher chance of being an addict than if you don’t. They said that those who would have a propensity toward becoming a slot machine addict may not just because it is too far away to become a habit. However, with all of the slot machines coming into the state, that roadblock is about to be lifted for many.

The Lehigh Valley is taking these claims very seriously, and is getting ready for the slot machines and the addicts that will soon follow. They are concerned about the new sands casino that will be built in Bethlehem, thereby opening up slot machines to a whole new brand of people. Those that would not normally be able to travel to the other parts of the state that just started offering it, will now have slot machines in their backyard.

The county is gearing up for the possibility that on average 50 miles out from the slot machine casino in all directions – these are the people who will now be at risk for developing a slot machine addiction. The study also showed that it did not matter what kind of establishment it was – if it is racetrack with slot machines or a casino with table games, there will still be an increase in addicts.

The county wants to stress that those who think they may have a slot machine addiction or any kind of gambling problem and want help can call the Council on Compulsive Gambling of Pennsylvania at 800-848-1880.

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