More Funding Allocated to Combat Gambling Harm in British Columbia

In a move to address the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of gambling, the provincial government of British Columbia, in collaboration with the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC), is allocating an additional $1 million for research. The central issue has been the lack of concrete evidence supporting either side of the argument, with critics highlighting the harms of the sector and advocates calling for more substantiated evidence.

The University of British Columbia Center for Gambling Research will play a pivotal role in this initiative, working alongside the BCLC and the government to gain deeper insights into the matter. The funding, spanning five years, comes at a crucial time when gambling is gaining increased attention, with ongoing discussions about further regulation and legalization not only in the province but also across Canada.

Mike Farnworth, the minister of public safety and solicitor-general, emphasized the importance of the Center for Gambling Research at UBC. He stated that the research conducted by the center is crucial in shaping government policies and safeguarding British Columbians from the adverse effects of problem gambling.

BCLC President and CEO, Pat Davis, expressed confidence in the meaningful impact of the funding. He stressed that the knowledge gained through the Center's research enables the corporation to improve programs and initiatives promoting player health, both within the province and beyond.

"We’re pleased to continue providing support to the center so its work can continue to guide the industry," Davis said. BCLC has been actively advancing consumer protection measures in the industry, extending the GameSense program to BetMGM, a prominent US gaming and betting operator.

The GameSense program, extended for another five years under a renewed contract, empowers consumers by helping them understand responsible gambling principles, set betting limits, and dispel myths about gambling and related harm. Informed by BCLC's research, GameSense proves to be a powerful tool in the ongoing efforts to combat gambling harm.