Assembly Resolution No. 938

BY: M. of A. Rosenthal L

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
March 2018, as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in
New York State

WHEREAS, Individuals across the country and in this State enjoy the
recreational aspects of legalized gambling; and

WHEREAS, The New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse
Services reports that nearly one million New Yorkers are currently
struggling with compulsive gambling issues; and

WHEREAS, The proliferation of gambling opportunities to New Yorkers
continues to increase; and

WHEREAS, Problem gambling should be considered a public health issue
affecting individuals of all ages, races and ethnic backgrounds in all
communities and having a significant societal and economic cost; 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 public awareness of problem gambling and the
effectiveness of treatment; and

WHEREAS, The 2018 Theme of the National Council on Program
Gambling's Awareness Month is "Have the Conversation," and aims to
increase awareness of problem gambling and the availability of
prevention, treatment and recovery services, as well as to encourage
healthcare providers to screen for problem gambling; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim March 2018, as Problem
Gambling Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause further to urge the New
York State Council on Problem Gambling to continue its outreach efforts
and advocate that resources be available for the prevention and
treatment of problem gambling in this State; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause further to urge all
residents of this great Empire State to learn more about problem
gambling and the programs available to help individuals and their
families who have been adversely affected by this issue; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.