LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim March 2010 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, Throughout the communities of New York State, problem gambling
is a public health issue affecting roughly one million citizens of all
ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorial-
ize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim March 2010 as Problem Gambl-
ing Awareness Month in the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes
disruptions in any major area of life, including psychological, phys-
ical, social or vocational; the term "problem gambling" includes, but is
not limited to, the condition known as "pathological", or "compulsive"
gambling, a progressive addiction characterized by increasing preoccupa-
tion with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restless-
ness or irritability when attempting to stop, chasing losses, and loss
of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite
of mounting, serious, negative consequences; and
WHEREAS, The focus and aim of Problem Gambling Awareness Month is to
increase the public perception of pathological gambling, ensure the
widespread availability of treatment for problem gamblers and their
families, and to encourage research and programs for prevention and
education; and
WHEREAS, Problem gambling is treatable and treatment is effective in
minimizing the harm to both individuals and society as a whole; and
WHEREAS, Numerous individuals, professionals, and organizations have
dedicated their efforts to the education of the public about problem
gambling and the availability and effectiveness of treatment; and
WHEREAS, It is imperative to promote the importance of Problem Gambl-
ing Awareness Month to provide individuals in the problem gambling
community an opportunity to educate the public and policymakers about
the social and financial effectiveness of services available for problem
gambling in New York State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim March 2010 as Problem
Gambling Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York.