Texas Lottery is once again participating in Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) this March
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TEXAS LOTTERY HIGHLIGHTS RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING
EFFORTS THIS MARCH
AUSTIN — For many adults, gambling is an enjoyable form of entertainment, but it’s important to recognize the potential risks. As part of its ongoing commitment to responsible gambling, the Texas Lottery is once again participating in Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) this March. Organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), PGAM is a nationwide initiative that unites public health organizations, advocacy groups and gaming operators to increase awareness of problem gambling and promote available prevention, treatment and recovery resources.
This year, NCPG’s campaign is focusing on increasing awareness of problem gambling as a serious but often misunderstood mental health condition. The campaign seeks to foster greater awareness and empathy, break down barriers to treatment and provide support for individuals and families impacted by gambling-related harm.
“For more than 30 years, responsible gambling has been a fundamental focus for the Texas Lottery,” said Ryan Mindell, executive director of the Texas Lottery. “By working alongside NCPG and our network of retail partners throughout the year and particularly during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, we can help connect players with valuable resources and services. Lottery games are designed to be a source of entertainment, while generating vital funding for public education and veterans’ services in Texas. We encourage all players to keep their gaming experiences positive by setting personal limits on time and spending.”
According to NCPG, problem gambling includes behaviors that disrupt or damage players’ personal, family or professional lives. While most adults who gamble do so responsibly, an estimated 2.5 million U.S. adults (1%) meet the criteria for a severe gambling problem, with an additional 5-8 million (2-3%) experiencing mild to moderate gambling problems.
The Texas Lottery, recognized by NCPG, the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries, and the World Lottery Association for its Responsible Gambling program, incorporates responsible play messaging into its marketing and communications year-round. Players must be at least 18 years old to purchase lottery tickets, a rule reinforced through in-store signage, retailer training programs and age verification at lottery vending machines. More than 20,000 retailers statewide are trained to ensure that lottery products are not sold to or redeemed by minors. Additional tools, such as training videos and tips for keeping lottery play a positive experience, can be accessed on the Texas Lottery’s dedicated Responsible Gambling pages on its website. Players can also find information and resources on lottery tickets, in-store “Positive Play” brochures, and across social media. Additionally, all lottery tickets and advertisements feature the “PLAY RESPONSIBLY” and “Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket” messages as a reminder to consumers.
Throughout March, the 2025 PGAM campaign will be featured in weekly employee and retailer communications, digital advertisements, and in-store messaging. The Texas Lottery will also share awareness content across its social media platforms and website, encouraging players and partners to engage with the campaign using the hashtag #PGAM2025.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing gambling-related difficulties, help is available. Call the NCPG Helpline at 800-522-4700 or text 800GAM for confidential, 24/7 support, including translation services. More information about problem gambling and available resources can be found at www.ncpgambling.org/pgam, www.ncpgambling.org/FAQs or www.texaslottery.com/
About the Texas Lottery
Beginning with the first ticket sold in 1992, the Texas Lottery has generated more than $40 billion in revenue for the state and distributed more than $90 billion in prizes to lottery players. Since 1997, the Texas Lottery has contributed $34.44 billion to the Foundation School Fund, which supports public education in Texas. As authorized by the Texas Legislature, certain Texas Lottery revenues benefit state programs including the Fund for Veterans’ Assistance. Since the first veterans’ themed scratch ticket game was launched in 2009, the Texas Lottery has contributed more than $262 million for programs supporting Texas veterans.
The Texas Lottery provides several entertaining games for lottery players including Powerball®, Mega Millions®, Lotto Texas®, All or Nothing™, Texas Two Step®, Pick 3™, Daily 4™, Cash Five® and scratch ticket games. For more information visit us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube or at texaslottery.com. Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket or enter a promotional second-chance drawing. PLAY RESPONSIBLY.
Editors/News Directors, note: A high-res image of the Problem Gambling Awareness Month logo can be downloaded here. (Right-click on the image for saving options.)
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