Virginia’s problem gambling committee takes lessons from other states

An advisory committee aiming to help Virginia handle gambling addiction is taking lessons from other states as the Commonwealth rapidly embraces the once-taboo practice.

“These people were not prepared,” University of Memphis gambling researcher James Whelan said, describing the results of a secret shopper survey of several Tennessee casinos he was presenting to Virginia’s Problem Gambling Treatment & Support Advisory Committee Tuesday morning.

Whelan said both in person and over-the-phone support staff at casinos failed to provide help for problem gamblers after they asked for it.

“No one said I don’t know this answer but let me get your information and I’ll get it to you,” he said.