(WXYZ) — Mike Mooney is the CEO of Choices Counseling Center in Roseville, a licensed counselor for 25 years, and is on the board of the Michigan Association of Problem Gambling.
The 24-hour Helpline is 800-270-7117. He wants that number out there because expects online gambling, now live in Michigan, to be a growing problem.
Mooney tells 7 Action News betting on smartphones could become the next Amazon with fewer people going to brick and mortar casinos.
“The 21st Century is going to tremendously expand with online gambling.”
And he says young adults are the target because they are familiar with smartphones.
The industry is blurring the line with not just sports bets, but also casino games on the apps.
Michigan approved online gambling because it generates tax revenue. Online gambling service providers include Michigan casinos.
The competition is fierce to get and keep the new players.
Mooney says The Michigan Association of Problem Gambling position on this is “neutral” because they would also like to see the state increase the amount of money it spends to help problem gamblers.
