D068 Addressing the Increase in Gambling
Resolved, the House of Bishops concurring,
That the Episcopal Church acknowledge the increase and prevalence of gambling in our society brought about by the ease of access to gambling, whether in person or online; and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church recognize the toll gambling disorders may have on a person, such as anxiety, depression, substance abuse, poverty, and increases in suicidal tendencies, and the elevated risk of gambling disorders in certain communities, such as communities of color, low-income communities and veterans; and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church support efforts to regulate and restrict gambling, including sports wagering, online gambling and casinos; and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church call upon gambling operators to integrate a better approach to gambling in all their communications and designs by creating communications which would alert gamblers to concerns in their habits, not market to children and teens and show the suffering gambling addiction brings on individuals and families; and be it further
Resolved, That The Episcopal Church encourage congregations to become familiar with resources for gambling disorders, and advocate for better safeguards for gambling.
Explanation
The U.S. gambling industry is one of the most valuable markets globally, with an estimated 57 million active gamblers visiting casinos, sportsbooks, and online platforms. Approximately 40% of U.S. adults visit a casino at least once a year, and around 85% have gambled in their lifetime. The U.S. has over 2,000 casinos, sportsbooks, and gambling venues, making up roughly a fifth of all such venues worldwide. Roughly half of U.S. states have legalized or regulated online gambling as of 2022, with more expected to expand access in the future.
The Supreme Court of the United States struck the law that had previously prohibited sports gambling. This paved the way for a stunning expansion of sport betting and raised concerns about the potential harm of gambling. Plus, there is very little funding to learn and understand gambling disorders. Many who have it do not seek treatment.
The Episcopal Church must begin to look at this issue. With the advent of online betting, turning even your phone into a casino, the number of those gambling will only continue to rise. Regulations on gambling are new. We must be able to advocate for these protections.