ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) — The agency that oversees Maryland’s casinos is considering eliminating a program that allows gambling addicts to sign up for a lifetime ban from casinos.
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency says it’s planning to examine how the program is working and study changes. No timetable has been set.
Agency Director Stephen Martino tells The Capital Gazette (http://bit.ly/10jLdVp ) that if the voluntary self-exclusion program is axed, gamblers would still be able to sign up for a two-year ban that includes counseling for problem gambling and a healthy-lifestyle program.
Martino says the two-year program, which can lead to a lifetime ban if participants fail to meet requirements, and the voluntary lifetime ban are redundant.
Critics say even with counseling, only having a two-year option may lead gambling addicts to temptation.
___
Information from: The Capital of Annapolis, Md., http://capitalgazette.com
Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
