Seattle Times

Dear Editor:

Problem gambling is a serious issue that the gaming industry works hard to address, but I feel compelled to correct the false claims that Neal Peirce builds his argument around in his editorial, “America’s gambling addiction threatens the nation’s soul.”

If these claims were true, states with commercial casinos would be centers of depravity instead of home to successful communities that see casinos as valuable community partners. From Biloxi, Miss. to Davenport, Iowa countless first-hand accounts from residents repeatedly affirm casinos as true assets to the region.

After taking even a cursory look at the claims of the negative social costs at the heart of this piece, it is clear that Pierce is focusing on incorrect or misinterpreted information.

As an example, a closer look at the all of the data gathered in the Nevada problem gambling study indicates the prevalence rate in Nevada is more in line with national rates than Pierce would have readers believe.

In truth, if expanded gambling led to more pathological gamblers, the prevalence rate for the disorder would have increased as gaming has expanded in the past 30 years.  On the contrary, it is settled science that the prevalence rate hasn’t changed, instead holding steady at approximately 1 percent of all adult Americans.  

Sincerely,

Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr.

President and CEO

American Gaming Association