Editorial: Problem gambling research gets nod

Except for a few casinos, problem gambling has been ignored for a long time in Nevada. But lately some progressive-minded casinos, including those that belong to the American Gaming Association, are acknowledging that something must be done to address this issue.

For many years people have associated problem gambling with high-stakes gambling in resort destinations such as Las Vegas. But the reality now is that Indian tribes throughout the nation offer high-stakes gambling and nearly all states offer some type of gambling, including state-sponsored lotteries. As gambling has proliferated, so have opportunities for people to develop into problem gamblers.

Problem gambling is a legitimate issue that should be examined in Nevada and other parts of the country that allow gambling. Now the hard work begins for Nevada. It's essential the state select an organization with no ties to the gaming industry to conduct the study. Otherwise, the results will be seen as no more than a sop to the casinos.

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