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Who We Are

Pause Before You Play is a responsible gambling awareness campaign created by Ohio for Responsible Gambling (ORG) and is supported by funds collected through Ohio’s taxes on gambling. ORG, an initiative of the State of Ohio, is dedicated to preventing or reducing problem gambling and building awareness of resources for preventing and treating gambling disorder.

Mission Statement

Pause Before You Play educates the public and grows awareness about problem betting and gambling, helps keep gambling and betting responsible and fun for those who engage in it, and connects people who need help with resources.

Our Partners

The ORG coalition partners include:

Ohio Casino Control Commission Ohio Lottery The Ohio State Racing Commission Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services

Gambling in Ohio

Gambling has long been a part of the Ohio entertainment landscape and is a large contributor toward school funding, charity, and local municipalities. In 2022 alone, the Lottery generated $1.4 billion for education in the state. Gambling in Ohio includes bingo, raffles, horse races, scratch-off tickets, casino games, electronic gaming, online and in-person sports betting, and more.

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The Arrival of Sports Betting

With Ohio legalizing sports betting in 2023, it quickly became one of the more popular forms of gambling in the state. With many Ohioans betting through online sites and apps, the importance of educating the public about slowing down to engage in responsible betting practices has increased.

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Keeping It Responsible

While betting and gambling provide many people opportunities for entertainment, too much gambling can result in serious consequences for Ohioans who engage in it, as well as their families, friends, and employers. That’s why it’s so important to continue to raise awareness about responsible gambling practices and the risks of problem gambling.

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Are You At Risk for
Problem Gambling?

It only takes two minutes to gauge your risk level for problem gambling.

Rate Your Risk
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Get Help from Ohio's Problem Gambling Helpline

If you or someone you know might be at risk for or struggling with gambling, do not hesitate to call Ohio’s free Problem Gambling Helpline. Trained and understanding specialists are available 24/7, and will keep your personal details confidential.
Call 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741.
Get Help