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Olivia Kantyka, Director of Communications & Legislative Affairs
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Barre, VT – The Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL) announced its commitment as a Level 1 participant of the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign, joining lotteries and community organizations across North America and around the world to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery use. The campaign is organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).
Research shows that the earlier a person’s participation or exposure to gambling is in childhood, the more likely they are to develop a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks.
“Vermont Lottery games are intended as responsible entertainment for adults 18 years of age and older, said Liquor and Lottery Commissioner Wendy Knight. “The Department is committed to keeping lottery games away from minors, especially during the holiday gift-giving season.”
As a Level 1 participant in the 2024 Gift Responsibly Campaign, DLL in December will work to promote awareness about the risks of underage lottery use by promoting responsible gaming on its social media channels.
“The potential long-term risks associated with underage gambling exposure cannot be understated,” said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director. “We applaud DLL for their commitment to raising awareness about the risks of youth gambling and for working to educate the community that lottery tickets are never appropriate gifts for children.”
About DLL
The Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery (DLL) creates and maintains a regulatory framework of licensing, compliance, enforcement, and education through partnerships for the responsible sale and consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and gaming products.
About the National Council on Problem Gambling
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is neutral on legalized gambling. Based in Washington DC, NCPG is the only national nonprofit organization that seeks to minimize the economic and social costs associated with gambling addiction. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which offers hope and help without stigma or shame. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.1800gamblerchat.org. Help is available 24/7 – it is free and confidential.