Editorial: Need for seriousness on problem gambling

The Nevada Gaming Commission has reasonable regulations in place that require gaming establishments to post signs and provide written information that offers help regarding problem gambling. The rules took effect Jan. 1, but as the Sun's John Wilen reported Friday, compliance has not been uniform.

Wilen made random checks at convenience stores, gas stations, bars, grocery stores and casinos across the valley. He found that most were complying, but that there were some notable exceptions. In some cases, brochures were nonexistent and in other places where they could be obtained, they were either impossible to see or hard to obtain, such as behind a counter where only a clerk or bartender could reach them.

The regulation is in its infancy, but it is too bad compliance has not been better. Problem gambling has been ignored too long and the commission's requirements seemed a modest, yet important, first step in dealing with the issue.

If these establishments don't want to invite more regulation of their businesses, they would be smart to take these new rules seriously. Otherwise, they will only be inviting more scrutiny by state regulators and the National Gambling Impact Study Commission.

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