For some people, gambling is a problem, and for others it is not. But it can be an addiction just like any other addiction to drugs or alcohol. However, it seems safe to assume that the state of Connecticut is doing nothing about the rising gambling problem, and that is just not the case.

The Connecticut Lottery Corp. is devoted to promoting responsible gaming in the state. They have been a major player of the statewide effort to tackle the needs of those who have put themselves and their families at risk by gambling excessively.

The Connecticut Lottery Corp. is the prime annual contributor to the state Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and Chronic Gamblers Treatment and Rehabilitation Fund so these statements could hardly be the case.

This year, the Connecticut Lottery funded and formed a public service campaign targeted directly at women with gambling addiction issues. This campaign has been recognized by the National Council on Problem Gambling for its educational value level to the public.

Along with the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling and Addiction and the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the Connecticut Lottery is one of the founding members of the Connecticut Partnership for Responsible Gambling in the state. Proactive in this partnership, the lottery management team and board demonstrate their commitment through teamwork in the development of training and public service campaigns that make available education and information to Lottery employees, retailers and the public.

Whether the General Assembly changes the timing for a study of problem gambling or not, we know that problem gambling exists and must be addressed now in our country. The Connecticut Lottery Corp. takes its duty to promote responsible play very seriously and always will as long as the states coffers are full of greenbacks.