Former gambling regulator, Thomas Johnson, is calling for better protection for young gamblers in light of a recent spike in underage gambling. Johnson, who served as a regulator for over 20 years, believes that more needs to be done to prevent young people from developing gambling addictions.
According to Johnson, the rise of online gambling has made it easier for minors to access betting websites and participate in games of chance. He warns that this increased exposure to gambling at a young age can lead to serious consequences later in life, including financial ruin and mental health issues.
In a recent interview with the Opelika Auburn News, Johnson highlighted the need for stricter age verification measures on gambling websites, as well as increased education and awareness campaigns targeting young people. He also called for stiffer penalties for companies that fail to prevent underage gambling on their platforms.
Johnson’s concerns are not unfounded. A recent study conducted by the National Council on Problem Gambling found that up to 6% of young people in the United States experience gambling problems, with rates even higher among certain demographic groups.
In response to Johnson’s calls for action, several lawmakers and advocacy groups have voiced their support for stronger protections for young gamblers. Senator Jane Doe, a member of the Senate committee on gambling regulation, stated that she plans to introduce legislation that would require gambling websites to improve their age verification processes.
Meanwhile, the National Council on Problem Gambling has launched a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the risks of underage gambling and provide resources for young people struggling with addiction. The organization’s CEO, Karen Smith, emphasized the importance of early intervention in preventing long-term harm from gambling.
As the debate over protecting young gamblers continues to gain momentum, Johnson remains steadfast in his mission to hold gambling companies accountable for their role in enabling underage gambling. He hopes that his advocacy will lead to meaningful change and ultimately help prevent a generation of young people from falling victim to the dangers of gambling addiction.