Virginia Governor Ralph Northam recently signed legislation aimed at addressing problem gambling in the state. The new law, which takes effect on July 1, 2021, establishes a framework for regulating sports betting and online gambling, while also providing funding for problem gambling prevention and treatment programs.

The legislation comes as Virginia prepares to launch its first legal sports betting operations later this year. The state legalized sports betting in 2020, but the process of establishing regulations and licensing operators has taken some time. Under the new law, the Virginia Lottery will oversee sports betting and online gambling, with licenses issued to operators who meet certain criteria.

One key provision of the law is the establishment of a Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund. This fund will be used to provide grants to organizations that offer prevention and treatment services for individuals struggling with gambling addiction. The fund will be supported by a tax on sports betting revenue, with 2.5% of all revenue generated from sports betting and online gambling going towards the fund.

In addition to the funding for problem gambling programs, the law also includes measures aimed at preventing underage gambling and ensuring responsible gambling practices. Operators will be required to use age verification technology to prevent minors from accessing their platforms, and they will also be required to offer self-exclusion options for individuals who wish to limit their own gambling activity.

The new law has been praised by advocates for responsible gambling and addiction treatment. Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the National Council on Problem Gambling, called it a “model for other states to follow,” noting that it “provides a comprehensive approach to addressing problem gambling.”

The legislation also reflects a growing recognition of the need to address problem gambling as more states legalize sports betting and online gambling. While these activities can provide significant revenue for states, they can also lead to increased rates of addiction and other negative consequences.

Overall, Virginia’s new law represents an important step towards ensuring that sports betting and online gambling are conducted in a responsible and safe manner. By providing funding for prevention and treatment programs, as well as implementing measures to prevent underage gambling and promote responsible gambling practices, the state is taking a proactive approach to addressing the potential harms of these activities.