The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has recently launched the “Don’t Gamble with Kids” awareness campaign with the primary objective of preventing minors from being left unattended while adults engage in gambling activities at casinos. This initiative was prompted by growing concerns over the number of incidents where children were left alone in vehicles within casino parking lots or hotel rooms. By addressing this critical issue, the Board aims to raise awareness among both caregivers and the general public, ensuring the safety and well-being of children while promoting responsible gambling practices.
Increasing Incidents and the Need for Action:
Since 2022, the Board’s Bureau of Casino Compliance has reported a disturbing increase in incidents involving minors being left unattended while adults gamble at casinos. Shockingly, 441 minors were involved in 269 recorded incidents, with 68 of them being six years old or younger. This marked a significant rise from the previous year, with 279 minors involved in 171 incidents in 2021. The surge in incidents has been attributed to the growth in the number of gambling venues and the introduction of new gaming options over the years.
Objectives of the “Don’t Gamble with Kids” Campaign:
The “Don’t Gamble with Kids” campaign has two primary target audiences: the caregivers responsible for children and the broader casino-visiting public. By disseminating information through television and radio public service announcements, social media posts and videos, printed materials, and a dedicated website (www.DontGamblewithKids.org), the campaign aims to educate and sensitize adults about the potential dangers of leaving children unattended while gambling.
Creating a Safer Environment for Children:
The safety and well-being of minors are at the core of the Board’s campaign, emphasizing that leaving children unattended in casino parking lots, garages, hotels, or any other venue poses significant risks. Apart from potential legal consequences, adults who abandon children may also face severe penalties, including lifetime bans from the specific casino involved, placement on the Board’s publicly available Exclusion List, criminal charges, and investigations by the Department of Children and Youth Services.
Recognizing Compulsive Gambling and Providing Help:
The Board recognizes that some adults who choose to leave children unattended may exhibit signs of a compulsive gambling problem. As part of the campaign, a link on the website directs individuals to the Board’s compulsive and problem gambling program, offering resources and support for those seeking help.
With the launch of the “Don’t Gamble with Kids” campaign, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board aims to create a safer casino environment for minors and raise awareness among adults about the dangers of leaving children unattended while gambling. By engaging the public through various media channels and highlighting the potential consequences for caregivers, the campaign seeks to promote responsible gambling practices and protect the well-being of children across the Commonwealth. Together, we can ensure that casinos remain places of entertainment, enjoyment, and safety for all patrons.