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Special recognition promoting March 2026 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
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SPECIAL RECOGNITION
WHEREAS, Lake County joins Nicasa Behavioral Health Services, the National Council on Problem Gambling, and the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling in recognizing March 2026 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, creating awareness about excessive gambling educates the public and policymakers about the effectiveness and availability of social and financial services for problem gambling; and
WHEREAS, problem gambling is a serious public health issue affecting millions of Americans of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds nationwide, resulting in significant social and economic costs for individuals, families, businesses, and communities; and
WHEREAS, about 21,000 Lake County residents are affected by a gambling disorder, and adolescents and young adults are at greater risk; and
WHEREAS, our country currently has more than 400 establishments operating over 2,300 video gaming terminals, in addition to a casino and access to online sports wagering; and
WHEREAS, many factors lead to gambling behavior becoming a gambling disorder, but gambling disorders are both preventable and treatable, and recovery is possible; and
WHEREAS, Lake County has led the way in funding various social service agencies to help prevent and mitigate the costs of problem gambling; and
WHEREAS, Lake County residents are encouraged to reach out for resources, including counseling, treatment, self-help, and support groups by contacting Nicasa at 847-546-6450, calling or texting 211, contacting the state’s 24-hour helpline at 800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537), or texting GAMB at 833234.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RECOGNIZED, by this County Board of Lake County, Illinois that March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Lake County; and
BE IT FURTHER RECOGNIZED that the Lake County Board advocates for responsible policymaking, research, prevention, and treatment of problem gambling, and encourages residents to find understanding for problem gambling and know that help that is available.
DATED at Waukegan, Illinois, on March 10, 2026.