As sports betting has soared, more people search online for help with gambling addiction
NPR Online News4 days ago
According to the American Gaming Association's annual report issued Wednesday, the US commercial gaming industry posted record revenue of $71.92B in 2024 — a 7.5% increase from 2023's previous record of $66.5B. Sports betting reportedly contributed $13.71B to the figures.
The association also reported that online gambling platforms reportedly accounted for 30% of all commercial gaming revenue in 2024, up from 25% in 2023 and 13% in 2021.
State and local governments benefited from $15.66B in gaming taxes in 2024, an 8.5% increase from 2023, not including federal excise taxes or annual fees.
The legalization of sports betting has brought gambling out of the shadows, enabling proper regulation and consumer protection while generating substantial tax revenue for public services. The vast majority of users engage responsibly with these platforms, and legal operations help combat illegal gambling markets.
The rapid expansion of online sports betting has created a public health crisis, with addiction rates soaring and vulnerable populations increasingly at risk. The industry's growth has outpaced protective regulations, leading to unprecedented levels of gambling addiction help-seeking, particularly among young adults.