Problem Gambling Awareness Month

Proclamation

By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, on behalf of the citizens of Alabama, I am pleased to join the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling in promoting March 2017 as Problem Gambling Awareness Month in Alabama; and

WHEREAS, promoting this awareness provides individuals in the problem gambling community an opportunity to educate the public and policymakers about the social and financial effectiveness of services and treatment available for problem gamblers; and

WHEREAS, problem gambling is an addiction as well as a public health issue affecting thousands of Alabamians of all ages, races, ethnic backgrounds, in all communities which has a significant societal and economic cost; and

WHEREAS, problem gambling is treatable and treatment is effective in minimizing the harm to both individuals and society as a whole; and

WHEREAS, numerous individuals, professionals, clergy, and organizations have dedicated their efforts to the education of the public about problem gambling and the availability and effectiveness of treatment; and

WHEREAS, the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling, the National Council on Problem Gambling in Washington D.C., and Alabama Certified Gambling Counselors throughout the State of Alabama, invite all residents of Alabama to participate in  Problem Gambling Awareness Month:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim March 2017, as

Problem Gambling Awareness Month

in the State of Alabama. I encourage all citizens to help spread the message that there is help for problem gamblers through treatment, and to support those who are in treatment and recovery and their families

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 22nd day of February 2017.

Robert Bentley

Governor