State helpline reports surge in problem-gambling contacts as mobile sports betting rises

Don Pleasure, executive director of the Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling, told the Louisiana Gaming Control Board on Aug. 21 that problem-gambling contacts have risen with the spread of mobile sports betting and in-game wagering. "LACG is not for or against gambling. In fact, we enjoy a very strong relationship with casino properties across the state," Pleasure said, describing an increase in helpline calls coincident with legalization of mobile sports betting. Pleasure told board members that the LACG residential treatment program has recorded about 5,000 unique admissions since it opened and that current residential capacity is about 30 percent of its potential. He said the helpline — which also answers some national and other states' lines — saw a large year-over-year increase during high-volume betting events, including a 63 percent increase in calls on Super Bowl Sunday 2025 compared with 2024 when calls the center answered for multiple jurisdictions are counted. The presentation placed special emphasis on younger adults and on high‑risk bet types such as in‑game betting and parlays, which Pleasure said are increasingly popular among people ages 21 to 24 and can encourage impulsive gambling behavior. He also said many callers exhibit ambivalence and call repeatedly before completing an intake and entering treatment. When Judge Scholes asked whether Louisiana should invest more in inpatient treatment capacity in the southern half of the state, Pleasure said LACG formerly operated a Core South residential program in the New Orleans area that closed after hurricanes Katrina and Rita; he said some people prefer treatment closer to home while others prefer to go out of their community. "I think there is more connection to the individuals in need and the capacity is there. But I could see some benefits there being a program in South Louisiana as well," Pleasure said. Board members and Pleasure discussed outreach strategies, with Pleasure recommending expanded streaming and mobile advertising, stronger prevention work in schools, wider promotion of treatment effectiveness and broader use of telehealth options to connect callers with clinicians and financial counseling. No board action was taken on the presentation; members thanked Pleasure and discussed continued coordination with the Office of Behavioral Health and the attorney general's problem-gambling program. Looking ahead, Pleasure urged the board and partners to prioritize prevention and quicker transitions from helpline contact to completed intakes and clinical treatment so callers can access services before problems escalate.