The New York State Assembly recently failed to pass a bill that would have established a Problem Gambling Advisory Council. The council would have been responsible for providing recommendations on how to address problem gambling in the state, as well as developing strategies to prevent and treat gambling addiction.

The bill was introduced by Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, who has been a vocal advocate for expanding gambling in the state. In a statement, Pretlow said that the council would have been an important step in addressing problem gambling in New York.

“Problem gambling is a serious issue that affects thousands of New Yorkers each year,” Pretlow said. “Establishing an advisory council would have allowed us to develop effective strategies to prevent and treat gambling addiction, and ensure that those who are struggling with this issue have access to the resources they need.”

Despite support from several advocacy groups, the bill failed to pass in the Assembly. Some lawmakers expressed concerns about the cost of establishing the council, while others argued that the state already has existing resources in place to address problem gambling.

However, advocates for the bill argue that the council would have been an important addition to the state’s efforts to combat problem gambling. According to a recent report from the New York Council on Problem Gambling, an estimated 668,000 adults in the state have experienced some form of gambling-related harm in their lifetime.

“Problem gambling is a public health issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across New York,” said Jim Maney, executive director of the New York Council on Problem Gambling. “Establishing an advisory council would have allowed us to bring together experts from across the state to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment.”

While the bill may have failed to pass this year, advocates say they will continue to push for its passage in future legislative sessions. In the meantime, they are urging lawmakers to take action to address problem gambling in other ways, such as increasing funding for treatment programs and expanding public awareness campaigns.

“Problem gambling is a growing issue in New York, and we need to take action to address it,” said Pretlow. “I will continue to fight for the establishment of a Problem Gambling Advisory Council, and I urge my colleagues in the Assembly to join me in this effort.”