There has been much written about how much help table games at Pennsylvania casinos will provide for the state budget. There also, however, is the possibility of problem gambling increasing in the state.

That is why, along with the other areas of interest, the state is looking into ways to increase awareness and treatment of gambling addictions. The table games will not be in casinos for several months, leaving state officials with some time to come up with programs.

"Anytime there is a major increase in the amount of gambling that is taking place, the risk for problem gambling cases grows," said Gaming Analyst Brad Dawkins, "Pennsylvania should take the time to learn from other states who have created well-functioning plans for prevention and treatment of gambling addiction."

The state is still unsure of how their newest industry has had an effect on the number of reported problem gambling cases in Pennsylvania. With that in mind, the state will begin preparing for a worst case scenario.

An additional $2.4 million was allocated this year for prevention and awareness. In addition, the Compulsive and Problem Gambling Treatment Fund is likely to double because of the table games.

Individual counties will also be given money from the health department to run their own prevention and treatment programs. Between the state and the county, officials are hoping that all of the bases of problem gambling will be covered.

The table games will be new, and so will many programs that are being established in Pennsylvania to ensure that the state's transition to full-scale casino gambling is a seamless one.

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