Breaking News: US Supreme Court Overturns PASPA

Excerpted from PGNO Responds to PASPA Repeal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 14, 2018

Today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was unconstitutional, which removes the federal restriction on sports betting. PGNO’s response to the repeal is available in the following press release.

While we maintain neutrality regarding gambling and its expansion, we also advocate for appropriate protections for those who are negatively impacted by gambling and gaming. Additionally, we work to ensure that organizations are held accountable and that there are sufficient resources available for prevention and treatment services.

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), for which PGNO is the Ohio affiliate, created the following resolution and principles regarding the legalization of sports gambling:

NCPG’s Resolution on the Legalization of Sports Gambling calls upon all stakeholders in the discussion over legalized sports gambling to recognize the potential impact on gambling addiction. The resolution offers direct actions for legislators and regulators, leagues and teams, and the media to minimize harm as a result of increased gambling participation.
Download NCPG’s Resolution on the Legalization of Sports Gambling

NCPG’s Responsible Gaming Principles for Sports Gambling Legislation provide a basis for new regulations and legislation that may be enacted to allow sports betting. The principles will help protect individuals, gaming companies, and legislators by assisting the creation of reasonable efforts to prevent harm and provide treatment.
Download NCPG’s Responsible Gaming Principles for Sports Gambling Legislation

“Today’s ruling could set the stage for what might be the largest simultaneous expansion of regulated gambling in U.S. history. With the Ohio legalization of Daily Fantasy Sports in December 2017, I anticipate there will be attempts to further legalize sports betting in the state. PGNO maintains neutrality regarding gambling and we are committed to ensuring that any legislation involving gaming include protections, such as voluntary exclusion and funds set aside for services specific to problem gambling prevention and treatment,” said Tristyn Eppley, President of the PGNO Board of Directors.

“Everyone who profits from sports betting bears responsibility for gambling problems. The only ethical and economical way to maximize benefits from sports betting is to minimize problem gambling harm,” says Derek Longmeier, PGNO Executive Director.

Based on data from the Ohio for Responsible Gambling coalition, an estimated 10%, or over 843,000 Ohio adults are at-risk for problem gambling. Of those, more than 76,000 Ohioans meet the criteria for a gambling disorder. Revenues from legalized sports betting must be viewed in the context of social costs, which are often hidden but must not be ignored.

Sincerely,
Derek Longmeier
Executive Director