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Addiction specialists and mental health professionals in Pennsylvania are sounding the alarm over a proposed change to the state’s casino self-exclusion program, urging the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) to reconsider its plan. The self-exclusion program allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from casinos to help manage their problematic gambling behavior, but under the current rules, once the exclusion period ends, they must apply to have their gaming privileges restored.
An article on Casino.org noted that the proposed amendment would automatically restore a person’s access to casinos once their exclusion period expires, without requiring them to actively request reinstatement. While the PGCB argues that this change would help prevent people from unknowingly trespassing at casinos after their exclusion period ends, addiction experts warn that it could have serious consequences for individuals in recovery from problem gambling.
The change has sparked widespread concern among addiction treatment providers, who fear that automatically lifting self-exclusion could undermine years of hard-won recovery. The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) has voiced strong opposition to the proposal, noting that many individuals in recovery choose self-exclusion based on the understanding that it will remain in place until they affirmatively decide to lift it. Amy Hubbard, manager of DDAP’s Compulsive Problem Gambling Section, emphasized that automatic reinstatement could trigger a relapse, particularly if an individual has not fully committed to quitting gambling.
Ken Martz, president of the Pennsylvania Association of Addiction Professionals, echoed this sentiment, arguing that the automatic restoration of privileges could be a significant setback for those trying to recover from gambling addiction. Martz suggested that while changes to the other self-exclusion programs for iGaming, video gaming terminals, and fantasy sports may be necessary, it is crucial that the casino self-exclusion program remain as is, with participants required to request reinstatement.
The PGCB’s argument in favor of automatic reinstatement revolves around reducing administrative burden and protecting self-excluded individuals from inadvertently violating the ban. However, addiction specialists contend that this change could significantly raise the risk of relapse, especially during vulnerable moments when an individual may not be prepared to re-enter a gambling environment.
A letter from the Better Institute, a mental health service provider in Pennsylvania, stated that removing people from the self-exclusion list without their explicit consent “shortens a problem gambler’s odds of relapse.” The letter also cautioned that relapse could have devastating consequences, such as financial ruin, relationship breakdowns, and even suicide. The Better Institute and other counselors argue that this proposed change directly contradicts consumer protection principles by making it easier for individuals to return to gambling, undermining their efforts to self-protect.
Despite the opposition from addiction specialists, the state’s casinos have largely refrained from commenting on the proposed change, although one letter raised concerns that casinos might target individuals who are newly removed from the self-exclusion list.
As the public comment period continues, it remains to be seen whether the PGCB will revise its proposal or move forward with the automatic restoration of gaming privileges. However, the growing chorus of addiction treatment professionals highlights the need for a more cautious approach—one that prioritizes the well-being and recovery of individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
If you or your loved one are struggling with a gambling addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery today. Our staff have many years of experience treating all types of addiction and mental health disorders. We will help you get your life back on track in a safe and supportive environment. Contact us to begin your journey towards the addiction-free future of your dreams.