Gambling addiction has escalated in Canada since the legalization of single-event sports betting three years ago, with young Canadians being the most impacted, according to experts who testified before a Senate committee.
While 7 percent of the general population is categorized as having a “problem gambling” issue, the rate jumps to 15 percent among those aged 18 to 34, as noted by
Matthew Young, chief research officer at Greo Evidence Insights, during the hearing on Sept. 25.
Responding to a question from committee chair Sen. Leo Housakos about whether problem gambling has increased since the legalization of single-event sports betting, Young stated, “The early indicators suggest that yes, it has indeed increased so far.”
“To what extent? We cannot say for certain because there is currently no monitoring or surveillance in place,” Young added.
Single-event sports betting was made legal in 2021 with the passing of
Bill C-218, known as the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act. This bill modified Paragraph 207(4)(b) of the Criminal Code,
allowing provinces and territories to oversee and manage betting on single sports events, such as races or fights, either online or at physical locations.
“Enhancing our economy through the support of decriminalizing single-event sports betting is a priority for the Government of Canada and contributes to building a safer and more prosperous nation,” the federal government stated in a
press release announcing the bill’s enactment.
A new bill is currently under review by senators to restrict advertising for sports betting.
Bill S-269 passed its second reading on May 9 and if enacted,
would prohibit endorsements by “celebrities or athletes in the promotion of sports betting” and establish a “national framework” to limit sports betting advertising.
“The extensive advertising of sports betting and other forms of gambling has become widespread in Canadian society,” as stated in the bill.
Studies have shown that increased exposure to gambling-related advertising leads to higher engagement in such activities, particularly among minors and individuals at risk of harmful gambling behaviors,” the bill reads.
Joannie Fogue Mgamgne, a member of the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s Youth Council, expressed concerns that legalizing sports betting was normalizing gambling, especially among vulnerable youth.
“Despite the age restriction of 18 and above for sports betting, research indicates that approximately 1 in 5 Canadian children between 9 and 17 years old participate in online casino or gambling games,” she informed the committee.
