SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6639

                    As of February 2, 2000

Title:  An act relating to youth education awareness on problem gambling.

Brief Description:  Providing for youth education awareness on problem gambling.

Sponsors:  Senators Prentice, Gardner, Shin and Oke.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Commerce, Trade, Housing & Financial Institutions:  2/3/2000.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, TRADE, HOUSING & FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Staff:  Catherine Mele (786-7470)

Background:  The Washington State Council on Problem Gambling offers a toll-free information line and referral service for problem gamblers. The council does not give treatment to gamblers, but does provide referrals for various treatment options.  The information line gives contact numbers for groups such as Gambler's Anonymous.  If the caller requests, the information line gives referrals for outpatient treatment providers who charge a fee for their services.  There are no inpatient treatment facilities for problem gamblers in Washington.  The council also provides problem gambling awareness education materials and problem gambling training for treatment providers and the gambling industry.  As part of its public education programs, the council has a youth problem gambling awareness program.  The council has received financial support from various state agencies involved in gambling, and from many private and nonprofit gambling operations.

Current law directs the Gambling Commission, the Lottery Commission, and the Horse Racing Commission to develop and display, through licensees and retail establishments, information and materials on problem gambling.  There are no laws requiring state agencies or other gambling operators to fund problem gambling awareness programs.

Summary of Bill:  For the fiscal years ending 2000 and 2001, $75,000 or as much as may be necessary is appropriated from the general fund to the Gambling Commission for youth education awareness on problem gambling.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested January 28, 2000.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.