Betting is high stakes among young gamblers — even in a state where gambling is illegal
Young people in Utah are gambling via phones despite illegality, with rising addiction and financial harm.Summary
Despite gambling being illegal in Utah, a significant number of young people are betting through mobile apps, with an estimated 26% of 11-year-olds having bet in the past year and over a third of boys by age 11 engaging in sports-related gambling. A high school student describes betting on football and political speeches via his phone with no age verification. Caleb Silverman, owner of the recovery app Bettrr, reports a 28% increase in calls to his gambling hotline last year. New research from Brigham Young University professor Mark Johnson shows that legalized betting in other states led to a 20% decline in investing among frequent bettors, especially vulnerable households with low savings, and increased debt. About 60% of college students gamble, and the University of Utah's Financial Wellness Center now counsels students on gambling debts. Utah high schools require financial literacy classes that cover gambling hazards, but teachers note that easy access and incentives make it appealing. The article also mentions a lawsuit by Utah's Attorney General against Kalshi and that the legal fight continues.
(Source：Headtopics)