What has Oregon done to address problem gambling?
Research shows that 2% of adult Oregonians may be current problem or pathological gamblers. That puts Oregon in the middle range of other state and national statistics. The vast majority of Oregonians do not have a problem with gambling. However, the State of Oregon and the Lottery recognize that while the government’s role is to carry out the will of the majority, it also has an obligation to provide for the needs of the minority. Oregon now dedicates 1% of Lottery funds – nearly $7.1 million per biennium- for problem gambling prevention and treatment programs. In addition, the Lottery spends $600,000 each year on advertising that address the nature of the problem gambling disease and the treatment that is available.
