The New York Gaming Commission’s Division of Lottery is once again advising adults to not gift lottery tickets to children this holiday season.

“Many times, a child’s first exposure to gambling comes in the form of a gifted lottery ticket from a well-meaning adult who may be unaware of the associated risks,” said Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer. “We encourage age-appropriate gifts this holiday season and throughout the year and thank our partners across the country in helping to spread the message.”

The reminder is part of the national Gift Responsibly campaign, created by the  National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and the International Center for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University to raise public awareness about the risks associated with youth gambling.

According to the NCPG, youth problem gambling is a growing concern:  

• Many young people report their first gambling experience occurs around 9-11 years of age.
• Approximately 60 percent of high-school-aged adolescents report having gambled for money during the past year.
• Ten to 14 percent of adolescents are at-risk for developing a problem with gambling.
• While male adolescents gamble more frequently than females, female adolescents are more actively involved in lottery play.
• Four to six percent of adolescents presently have a serious problem with gambling.

The New York State Gaming Commission is supporting the 2023 Gift Responsibly campaign via  radio spots, OLV and social media posts, displays at high traffic locations across the state, signage at Lottery, video lottery and commercial casino locations; mobile and marquee ads on the New York Lottery’s website, and retailer training. (creative assets)

Visit www.PlayResponsiblyNY.com for important information, including where to get help for problem gambling, a gambling self-assessment, professional problem gambling resources, and more.

The Commission, the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling founded the Responsible Play Partnership (RPP) in 2013 to bring all stakeholders together to address problem gambling, including bridging the gap between gaming facility operators and problem gambling treatment providers. The RPP works to ensure that all gaming entities in the state comply with all rules and regulations and provide access to help for individuals who need it.

The New York Lottery is committed to providing players with a range of fun, entertaining games in a socially responsible manner. Those seeking help can visit NYProblemGamblingHelp.org or call New York State’s confidential HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369).