Sen. Hwang Statement Re: Sports Gambling Arrests

Sen. Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield) today issued the following statement regarding U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal and problem gambling advocates today highlighting the risks of sports gambling after the arrests of a high-level NBA coach and player.

“This scandal highlights the need to raise public awareness about the devastating societal impacts of expanding gambling.

It impacts people of all ages, of all backgrounds, in all communities.

Internet gambling addiction is the fastest growing addiction among American children, high schoolers and college students because of real-time betting access on cell phones and computers.

According to gambling addiction professionals, the rate of problem gambling disorders and the resulting social and personal financial problems increases for online players, especially for those experiencing anxiety, isolation and depression.”