Vermont launches Problem Gambling site: Find help in VT now

Vermont may have the second-smallest population of any state in the U.S., but there are plenty of sports fans there, so it didn’t come as much of a surprise when the Green Mountain State launched legal online sports betting on January 11, 2024. Although regulated sports gambling hasn’t been live for long, Vermont is being proactive when it comes to combating problem gambling. In fact, they’ve launched a new gambling addiction resources site to help residents find treatment and help if ever needed. 

Gambling addiction treatment options & resources in VT

The new problem gambling site in Vermont went live on July 9, 2024, thanks to the Vermont Department of Health. The site, VTGamblingHelp.org, provides live chat functionality and links to resources to help those in need.

Before we dive into a bit of the history of sports betting in Vermont and more, it’s important to note that VT residents can also get help and treatment from the licensed professionals at Birches Health. Overall, 90% of patients report an improved quality of life following treatment with Birches. Treatment is also conducted virtually through telehealth technology, which can be particularly helpful for individuals in Vermont who may not live near an in-person specialized counselor or treatment facility.

Whether you are dealing with a gambling addiction, feel at risk of developing one or know someone who may be dealing with a problem, there is no shortage of ways to get started:

• Book an Appointment with a Therapist: Schedule time with a clinician to begin the journey toward recovery

• Speak with a Care Specialist: Get personalized guidance on recommended next steps

• Refer Someone Else: Help a friend or loved one get help

• Free Self-Assessment: Evaluate gambling habits and determine the potential need for treatment.

You can also simply call 833-483-3838 or email hello@bircheshealth.com to get in touch directly with the Birches care team right away.

History of sports betting in Vermont

As mentioned, Vermont is one of the more recent states to launch legal online sports betting. It’s been just six months since it went live, and the process through which they reached their launch date in January was quite standard.

In June 2023, legislation was passed by Governor Phil Scott that put things in motion. The six months that followed were rather swift in terms of the length between a bill being passed into law and the actual launch, and the six months since then have also seen plenty of news.

Just a month after launch in mid-February of 2024, Vermont passed yet another bill that would put more regulations on advertising for gambling. Then, just another month later, the Green Mountain State officially banned player props in college games. Now, they’re being even more proactive by highlighting and increasing the accessibility of problem gambling resources.

How popular is sports betting in Vermont?

Given the size and population of Vermont, it was never expected to be a big player in the sports betting industry. Of course, its location correlates with diehard fan bases, but the sheer numbers won’t be nearly as significant as the likes of Massachusetts, New York or Pennsylvania. In fact, the running total of handle by state, or amount wagered, has Vermont as the second-lowest of all 38 legal locations.

Even still, there are thousands of sports fans in Vermont, and the first month saw a $21 million handle. The first two months of going live were the highest in that regard, and the most recent numbers illustrate that June was the lowest, with just over $10 million wagered. So, while the state has seen a consistent decline in wagers, we’re still discussing amounts in the millions.

Gambling addiction & problem gambling rates in Vermont

When the new problem gambling site in Vermont went live, it was estimated that nearly 12,000 individuals in the state were dealing with a gambling-related disorder. Again, given the smaller population of the state, a better perspective is the fact that 77% of adults in Vermont reported gambling at least once a year.

Given that the sports world only picks up in terms of increased action come the fall, this new problem gambling site launching in July demonstrates a commendable proactive approach to potential gambling-related harms in the state.

Sources:

Vermont Launches Problem Gambling Support Website | Politics | Seven Days

RG website launched by Vermont health department

Vermont Sports Betting in 2024

US Sports Betting Revenue & Handle

Vermont Gambling Addiction Treatment and Counseling

Vermont Sports Betting Sets New All-Time Low Handle & Revenue in June.