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Missouri Self-Ban Program May Evolve

MISSOURI – As reported by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch: "Nearly 9,000 gambling addicts have permanently banned themselves from Missouri's casinos, a number that grows by 145 a month.

"State regulators, addiction counselors and gambling foes say the numbers are good news because they show the state is getting the word out about treatment options.

"There's less agreement on a proposal to drop the key plank of the state program - the lifetime nature of the ban. The Missouri Gaming Commission details the self-ban's growth and suggests a fundamental change in an annual report issued this week. The rationale for the proposal: More people might participate if they could opt out after a certain number of years.

"'We think we're losing people because of the lifetime-only option,' said Kevin Mullally, executive director of the Missouri Gaming Commission.

"…Mullally said his staff is still developing the opt-out feature for Missouri but it's unlikely to require certification by a mental health professional.

"…Instead, Missouri is considering an educational program and self-assessment test for problem gamblers who want off the list. According to the commission's annual report, the program would help them develop coping strategies and make healthier choices.

"Rick Cox, who counsels problem gamblers in St. Charles, said relaxing the lifetime ban might attract more people. But he doubted that they could return to gambling after five or even 10 years of abstinence without getting into trouble…"

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