Problem Gambling in Focus in Arkansas as March Madness in Full Swing
Arkansas is experiencing a surge in problem gambling helpline calls coinciding with the launch of FanDuel and DraftKings and the March Madness tournament.Summary
The recent launch of FanDuel and DraftKings in Arkansas, timed with the March Madness basketball tournament, has led to a noticeable increase in calls to the state's problem gambling helpline. Vena Schexnayder, executive director of the Arkansas Problem Gambling Council, reported 7,000 helpline calls in 2025, with over 2,100 occurring between January and March. She highlighted major sporting events like March Madness as triggers for individuals struggling with gambling-related harm. The accessibility of mobile sports gambling, likened to “portable casinos,” is exacerbating the problem, removing the barrier of needing to physically travel to gamble. The American Gaming Association projects $3.3 billion in legal wagers for March Madness, prompting warnings from the National Council on Problem Gambling and its affiliates regarding excessive gambling behavior.
(Source：Gamblingnews)