Problem gambling treatment funds sought

Monday, July 12, 1999 | 10:58 a.m.

SEATTLE -- A new survey shows problem gambling has leveled off in Washington state the past six years. But some gambling experts are calling on the state to help pay for treatment for compulsive and problem gamblers, the Seattle Times reported.

The state operates a lottery and Washington is home to more than a dozen new Indian casinos featuring slot-like games, while minicasino card rooms and off-track horse betting have grown over the past six years.

"It's obviously very difficult for the state to justify having the largest (gambling) game in the state and not taking full responsibility for the liability side of the product they're selling," said Charles Maurer, board president of the Washington State Council on Problem Gambling, which commissioned the recent survey.

Maurer was quoted in the Seattle Times story.

Based on responses to a 1998 telephone survey of 1,500 people, the study concluded up to 5 percent of Washington residents have experienced severe gambling problems during their lives. That's the same percentage as found in a similar 1993 survey.

Gary Hanson, the problem gambling council's executive director, said the state should provide treatment for problem gamblers who can't afford to pay for such services.

There is no funding now for such state treatment, officials said.

The Times reported Sen. Margarita Prentice, D-Seattle, who chairs a committee whose jurisdiction includes gambling, said she may try to require insurance companies to cover treatment.

"We do have an obligation to them," Prentice said.