The Minnesota Alliance for Problem Gambling and the Minnesota Lottery Join 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign to Raise Awareness of Youth Gambling Risks

Campaign seeks to amplify how early exposure of gambling can increase one’s likelihood of a gambling addiction 

ROSEVILLE (NOV. 29, 2023) – The Minnesota Alliance for Problem Gambling and the Minnesota State Lottery today announced their continued participation in the 2023 Gift Responsibly Campaign, an international responsible gambling campaign to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign, organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University, unites lotteries and community organizations from across the nation and world. 

Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks. 

In Minnesota, gambling is surging among minors; the 2022 Minnesota Student Survey found that over 6,000 high schoolers indicated having issues with gambling and that online use has increased since 2019. All gambling in Minnesota is for individuals 18 and older. 

During November and December, MNAPG and the Minnesota Lottery will promote the campaign through public service announcements, social media content and press outreach.“ 

Many adults might not consider the risks of gifting a scratch-off or lottery ticket to children or allowing them to play,” says MNAPG Executive Director and NCPG Board of Directors President Susan Sheridan Tucker. “Yet it’s a dangerous activity for kids and teens. Gambling revs up the brain’s reward hub and primes the body to seek greater thrills over time. Growing minds can’t fully weigh these risks and decisions.” 

“We’re pleased to partner with the Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling to elevate the risks of youth gambling,” says Minnesota Lottery Executive Director Adam Prock. “Lottery products are designed specifically for adults. We encourage Minnesota adults who do play to make and model safe, responsible choices.” 

“The potential long-term risks associated with underage gambling exposure cannot be understated,” said NCPG Executive Director Keith Whyte. “I commend MNAPG and the Minnesota Lottery for their commitment to raising awareness about the risks of youth gambling. Now, more than ever, we must continue to insist that lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.” 

Minnesotans can learn more about the Gift Responsibly campaign on MNAPG.org, where they can find information about warning signs and tips for addressing youth gambling. School groups, businesses and local organizations can also build their knowledge of gambling addiction and at-risk gambling by participating in MNAPG’s free Community Outreach presentations.

About Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling 

Minnesota Alliance on Problem Gambling (MNAPG) is a nonprofit, gambling-neutral organization dedicated to improving the lives of Minnesotans affected by problem gambling. A 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, MNAPG is funded by membership fees, financial and in-kind donations, and state and private grants. MNAPG serves as Minnesota’s affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. 

About The Minnesota State Lottery 

The Minnesota State Lottery raises money for programs that positively impact the lives of Minnesotans. It offers uniquely Minnesotan games of chance that are held to the highest standard of integrity and security. Since 1990, the Lottery has returned more than $3.6 billion to programs that benefit all Minnesotans, including the state’s most precious natural resources, education, health care and more. 

About the National Council on Problem Gambling 

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington DC, NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential. 

About International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University 

For over 20 years, the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University has been at the forefront of leading-edge research aimed at identifying and understanding the critical factors related to youth gambling issues. 

SOURCE: Minnesota State Lottery.