March 2025: Responsible Gambling Awareness Month

WHEREAS, legalized gambling is available in a variety of forms across Michigan; and,

WHEREAS, for some individuals, gambling becomes an issue with significant societal and economic costs for them, their families, and their communities; and,

WHEREAS, problem gambling is a public health issue affecting individuals of all ages and backgrounds; and,

WHEREAS, in 2024, the Michigan Problem Gambling Help-Line received 8,536 calls for problem gambling help, and of those individuals, 468 engaged in treatment or support groups; and

WHEREAS, the Michigan Association on Problem Gambling and the National Council on Problem Gambling have designated March 2025 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month to increase public awareness of problem gambling as well as the availability of prevention, treatment, and recovery services; and,

WHEREAS, we join the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Substance Use Disorder, Gambling and Epidemiology, Adult Home and Community-Based Services Division to encourage Michigan residents to promote the Michigan Problem Gambling Help-Line, counseling and prevention efforts, as such treatment is effective in minimizing harm to both individuals and society; and,

WHEREAS, it is important to raise public awareness of the warning signs of problem gambling and the availability and effectiveness of treatment; and,

WHEREAS, educating citizens about problem gambling is important not only to recognize but also to prevent addiction;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2025 as Responsible Gambling Awareness Month in Michigan.