Gambling generates billions in tax dollars that drives Nevada's economy. But problem gambling is also a big issue for Nevadans and state funding for programs to help addicts is dwindling. As a result of state budget cuts in 2011, fees on slot machines that fund problem gambling programs were diverted cutting the amount the state contributes to those programs in half.
A 2002 study found 2.1 to 6.4 percent of Nevadans are problem gamblers or are at risk of developing an addiction. What will it take to adequately fund problem gambling programs? We talk with a UCLA professor who has been an expert witness in gambling problem trials and a Las Vegas Sun reporter about effective treatment and a lack of funds to help gambling addicts in Nevada.
GUESTS
Rick Velotta, reporter, LV Sun and Vegas Inc
Timothy Fong, PhD, Asst Clinical Prof of Psychiatry, UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and Hospital