Title: Bookmakers Urge Massachusetts Lawmakers to Legalize Online Casino Gaming Amid Gambling Concerns
Massachusetts bookmakers are urging lawmakers to legalize online casino gaming, claiming it could protect residents from unregulated markets while generating significant state revenue. During a recent hearing, industry representatives highlighted how a thriving black market for illegal "i-gaming" is already catering to local gamblers, who can place bets within minutes through unauthorized websites. David Prestwood of DraftKings noted that illegal operations lack consumer protections and contribute no tax revenue to the state.
Experts estimate that a legalized online casino market could bring in $230 to $275 million annually for Massachusetts. States like New Jersey and Pennsylvania have reaped financial benefits and reduced the prevalence of illegal gambling following legalization, Prestwood argued.
However, opponents raised alarms about the potential for increased gambling addiction. Brianne Doura-Schawohl, a problem gambling expert, cautioned that states legalizing i-gaming faced rising addiction rates, noting that in Connecticut, 70% of i-gaming revenue came from just 7% of gamblers, many of whom struggled with addiction.
Lawmakers have yet to take action on any of the proposed legislation regarding online casino gaming, leaving the future of this issue uncertain.
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