Massachusetts Launches Youth Sports Betting Safety Coalition
As college sports tournaments unfold across Massachusetts this week, Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has unveiled a new initiative aimed at addressing the risks associated with sports betting and gambling among young people. The Youth Sports Betting Safety Coalition, a public-private partnership, seeks to educate individuals aged 12 to 20 about the laws, risks, and public Health implications of gambling.
“With sports betting now readily accessible in Massachusetts, it is imperative that we raise awareness of the potential risks, especially for our youth,” said Campbell. “This coalition brings together key stakeholders from various sectors to safeguard and educate young adults in our state.”
The coalition’s founding members include Campbell’s office, the Mass. Gaming Commission, the NCAA, Mass. Council on Gaming and Health, Civic Action Project, as well as professional sports teams such as the Boston Red Sox, Boston Bruins, Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, and New England Revolution.
NCAA President Charlie Baker, Massachusetts’ former governor, emphasized the importance of protecting student-athletes and collegiate competition from the negative impacts of sports betting. The partnership between the NCAA, Attorney General Campbell’s office, the Gaming Commission, and Boston’s professional teams aims to increase awareness and educate young people about the risks associated with sports betting.
According to national data from the NCAA, a significant number of young adults have already engaged in sports betting activities, with a majority influenced by advertising. The coalition aims to combat this trend and empower young individuals to make informed choices regarding gambling.
In a state where sports betting is increasingly prevalent, the formation of the Youth Sports Betting Safety Coalition represents a proactive step towards addressing the risks and promoting responsible gambling practices among young people. Through collaboration and educational initiatives, the coalition is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of Massachusetts’ youth amid the evolving landscape of sports betting.
