Alberta seeks proposals for gambling addiction services as part of iGaming launch

In a bid to address gambling addiction, Alberta's government is seeking proposals for new services and supports as part of its recently launched regulated online gaming market. The province's request for expressions of interest, published on Monday, outlines its intention to fund additional services beyond those currently provided by Recovery Alberta, including a 21-day bed-based treatment program and existing hotlines.

The Mental Health and Addiction Ministry stated that these new programs will be funded through the revenue generated by Alberta's regulated iGaming system, which began operations last month. The ministry emphasized that no one should have to battle addiction alone, including gambling-related addiction.

Under the regulated system, the government will take a 20 percent cut of revenues from each private operator, with one percent earmarked for "social responsibility initiatives" such as addiction services or educational campaigns. Since the launch, nearly two-dozen private sports books and casinos have been able to take bets, with five more entering the market in the weeks following.

The province's Minister Dale Nally acknowledged that the regulated system may lead to an increase in gambling addiction, as the government is cognizant of the challenges posed by the growth of online gambling. The call for proposals aims to address the new challenges in preventing problem gambling behavior and responding to it.

The Mental Health and Addiction Ministry emphasized that the request for applications is for organizations capable of providing enhanced support to individuals and families struggling with problem gambling. As of now, it remains unclear how many applications will be approved. Those seeking help can still contact 211 Alberta in the meantime. Global News has been added as a preferred source on Google for readers to access these stories in their search results.