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Q: What is Problem
Gambling?
Problem Gambling is a pattern of gambling that
leads to recurring difficulties in one or more areas of life. The most
extreme form called “pathological gambling” is commonly known as
“compulsive” or “addictive gambling.” It is best defined as repeated
failure to control or stop gambling that has had significant negative
consequences for finances, family life, self-esteem and/or other parts
of life. Pathological gamblers spend significant time thinking about
gambling and other experience irresistible urges to gamble. For more
information go to:
www.dmhas.state.ct.us/bettorchoiceshtm or
www.ccpg.org
Q.
How
common is it?
About two to five percent of the population are or have been problem
gamblers. This figure includes the one to two percent of the population
that are or have been pathological gamblers. In addition, many experts
believe that a significant percentage of gamblers may be at-risk of
developing gambling problems. Some of these gamblers should avoid in
gambling activities. Rates of problem gambling appear to be higher
among minority groups, single males and patrons of gambling facilities.
Q.
What does the state do with the revenue it receives from gambling?
Revenues obtained from all forms of state gambling go into the General Fund.
It is dispensed to cities and towns throughout the state to fund various
programs. Rebuilding roads, schools and assisting the elderly and children
are only a small sample of where and how the money is dispensed throughout
the state.
Q. How many people are employed at Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun?
Directly and indirectly through gambling, both casinos employ approximately
27,000 employees. In addition, they also employ various independent vendors
throughout the Northeast
Q. How much money did the state receive from all forms of gambling last
year?
For the 2004-2005 fiscal year, the state received $693,560,828 from the
gambling industry. It is broken down as follows:
Lottery
$268,912,799
Plainfield Greyhound Park
64,837
Bridgeport/Shoreline Star
39,462
Off-Track Betting
5,275,182
Charitable Games
1,431,054
Foxwoods Casino
204,953,050
Mohegan Sun Casino
212,884,444
Total
$693,560,828
Q.
How
much money does the State and gambling enterprises in Connecticut contribute
to problem gambling prevention, treatment and research?
Approximately $1.8 million are allocated annually by the state and
industry. In FY 06 a one –time allocation of $500,000 was added by the
Legislature.
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