Should Missouri be worried about legalized Sports Betting?
Author:
Zach Lutz
Reviewed by:
Published:
Nov 14, 2024
,
12:31 p.m.
ET
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
,
12:21 p.m.
ET
On Election Day, November 5, Missouri voters narrowly passed Amendment 2, in essence making sports betting legal in the state. This historic vote was a culmination of ongoing efforts to join the growing number of 38 states in the U.S. that allow sports betting, including neighboring ones like Kansas, Illinois and Iowa. Missouri’s relationship with gambling began in the 1990s with the launch of riverboat casinos, and has expanded over the years to include lotteries and charitable gaming.
While many Missourians look forward to placing bets on their favorite sports teams, questions remain about the potential societal impacts. Concerns are rising about problem gambling and its effects on individuals and families in the state.
Gambling addiction concerns in Missouri before sports betting goes live
Voters only approved the sports betting ballot measure by a slim margin (50.1%), and as Missouri approaches the official launch in 2025, concerns about a potential surge in gambling addiction are rising. As reported by KCTV5, local counselor Jordyn Hanson, a Certified Gambling Disorder Counselor at University Health, voiced warnings that expanded gambling options could drive an increase in problem gambling.
Hanson points out that gambling addiction often develops insidiously, and for many, it begins as a harmless pastime that escalates into something destructive. Some statistics are particularly concerning: approximately 49.2% of those diagnosed with gambling disorders experience suicidal ideation, and 27% attempt suicide.
With the passing of Amendment 2, Missourians will likely be able to place bets online and in-person by late summer or early fall 2025, allowing widespread access to sports betting. Advocates of the amendment highlight the financial benefits, projecting up to $39 million in annual revenue by the fifth year of operation. This funding will support public education programs – a key selling point in the state’s decision to legalize betting.
However, Hanson and other specialists argue that the potential social costs cannot be ignored. Hanson fears that many will seek help only after severe consequences arise, like financial devastation or family strain. The Missouri Gaming Commission has a December 1st, 2025 deadline to launch the market.
Gambling addiction stats in other states that legalized sports betting
In states that have already legalized sports betting, the impact on problem gambling has been significant. A pioneer in the sports betting landscape, New Jersey has seen a 277% increase in calls to its gambling hotline since legalizing online betting in 2018. The majority of these calls come from men under 34, indicating a pronounced risk among younger bettors. The alarming prevalence of problem gambling among adolescents is even more concerning: 10-15% of young people who gamble face gambling-related issues, with adolescents under 25 making up a sizable portion of recent hotline callers. These findings highlight that for many young individuals, gambling behaviors escalate rapidly from casual to problematic.
The trends observed in New Jersey reflect broader national data on sports betting’s influence. States like North Carolina report a 79% surge in calls to their gambling helpline since sports betting became available, with a notable increase in younger people seeking help.
This troubling pattern mirrors findings from a global study showing that gambling addiction affects 16.3% of adolescents who participate in sports betting, compared to 8.9% of adults. As Missouri moves forward with sports betting, these trends suggest that dedicated support and preventive strategies will be crucial to mitigate the social impact.
Sports Betting demographics in the U.S.
One of the top demographics most likely to engage in sports betting in the U.S. consists of young men aged 25-35, particularly those with steady incomes and a strong interest in sports. Studies indicate that this group is drawn to the convenience of online platforms, where in-game betting options heighten the impulsivity and frequency of wagers.
Missouri’s recent legislation aligns with this trend, enabling both online and in-person betting, which is likely to attract this high-risk demographic. In New Jersey, where over 90% of sports bets are placed online, almost half are in-game bets, which data shows are associated with impulsive gambling tendencies and high rates of problem gambling.
Beyond demographics, the nature of the bets also plays a role in risk levels. High-risk bet types, such as parlays, which have low win rates but high payouts, account for over 80% of losses in states like New Jersey. This style of betting appeals to young, thrill-seeking bettors and can lead to significant financial loss.
Additionally, recent research by the American Gaming Association highlights the role of media and cultural influences on sports betting, showing that nearly 84% of sports bettors follow sports avidly, while 67% attend live sporting events, demonstrating how fandom and frequent exposure to betting opportunities can fuel betting habits.
Treatment for Gambling Addiction in Missouri
Birches Health offers a range of services for those in Missouri seeking help with gambling addiction, including:
Virtual Outpatient Care: Available statewide, including Kansas City, St. Louis, and Springfield.
Individual Therapy and Group Counseling: Led by licensed clinicians, tailored to address specific challenges.
Family Support Services: For family members impacted by a loved one’s gambling addiction.
Through a commitment to personalized care, Birches Health helps individuals regain control and foster long-term recovery. With 96% of patients reporting an improvement in their quality of life, Birches Health is dedicated to addressing gambling addiction and mitigating its effects across Missouri.
Birches Health offers several ways to connect with care:
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, you can also contact Birches Health for confidential support. Take the first step toward recovery with a free self-assessment or connect with a care specialist at 833-483-3838.
