Former gambling regulator, John Doe, is calling for better protection for young gamblers in light of the growing trend of underage gambling. In a recent interview with the Ravalli Republic, Doe expressed his concerns about the lack of safeguards in place for young people who are increasingly getting hooked on gambling at an early age.
Doe, who served as a regulator for over a decade, highlighted the alarming statistics that show a significant increase in the number of young people engaging in gambling activities. According to a recent survey conducted by the National Council on Problem Gambling, nearly 35% of young people aged 12 to 17 have gambled in the past year, and 10% of them are at risk of developing a gambling problem.
Doe emphasized the need for stricter regulations to prevent young people from falling into the trap of gambling addiction. He called for measures such as mandatory age verification checks, limits on advertising targeted at young audiences, and restrictions on the types of games that are available to minors.
In addition to regulatory changes, Doe also stressed the importance of educating young people about the risks of gambling and providing support for those who may already be struggling with addiction. He urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to take a proactive approach in addressing the issue and to help young people make informed choices about their gambling habits.
Doe’s calls for better protection for young gamblers have resonated with many in the community, with several local organizations expressing their support for his efforts. The Ravalli County Youth Council has pledged to work with Doe to develop a comprehensive strategy to address underage gambling in the area.
In response to the growing concerns, the Montana Gambling Control Division has announced plans to review its existing policies and explore new ways to protect young people from the dangers of gambling. State officials have also promised to work closely with advocacy groups, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders to develop a coordinated approach to combating underage gambling.
As the debate over underage gambling continues to heat up, it is clear that more needs to be done to protect young people from the risks associated with this growing trend. With the support of advocates like John Doe, there is hope that meaningful change can be achieved to safeguard the well-being of the next generation.