According to newly released data from the American Gaming Association (AGA), acceptance of gambling in the United States is at an all-time high. The report, which was conducted by the AGA’s research arm, shows that a whopping 65% of Americans now approve of gambling in some form, whether it be casinos, sports betting, or online gambling.
This increase in acceptance comes as little surprise, considering the recent boom in the gambling industry across the country. With more and more states legalizing various forms of gambling, Americans are becoming more accustomed to seeing casinos pop up in their communities and online gambling becoming more accessible. Additionally, the rise of sports betting has made gambling more mainstream and socially acceptable.
One of the key takeaways from the report is the changing attitudes towards sports betting. Since the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in 2018, allowing states to legalize sports betting, the industry has exploded. The report shows that 43% of Americans now approve of sports betting, up from just 23% in 2009.
Online gambling has also seen a surge in popularity, with 53% of Americans now approving of it, compared to just 35% in 2009. The convenience and accessibility of online gambling have made it a popular choice for many Americans, especially younger generations who are more tech-savvy.
The report also highlights the economic impact of the gambling industry on the US economy. According to the AGA, the industry generates over $200 billion in revenue each year and supports over 1.8 million jobs. With more states legalizing gambling, these numbers are only expected to grow in the coming years.
While the increase in acceptance of gambling may be good news for the industry, it also raises concerns about the potential for addiction and problem gambling. The AGA report acknowledges these concerns and highlights the importance of responsible gambling practices and regulations to protect consumers.
Overall, the data released by the AGA paints a clear picture of the changing attitudes towards gambling in America. With more states legalizing various forms of gambling and the industry continuing to grow, it seems that gambling is here to stay and will only become more accepted in the years to come.
