Guest Column: Skill Games Unsafe For Problem Gamblers 

Dr. Carolyn Hawley and Keith Whyte 

 We are concerned about Virginia’s potential legalization of skill games and the lack of appropriate controls around these gambling devices. 

We serve as president and executive director of the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling and the National Council on Problem Gambling, respectively. The mission of the Virginia Council on Problem Gambling is to increase public awareness of problem gambling, ensure the widespread availability of treatment for problem gamblers and their families and to encourage research and programs for prevention and education. 

Founded in 1972, the National Council on Problem Gambling is the advocate for programs and services to help problem gamblers and their families. Our 52-year history of independence makes the National Council the most credible voice on gambling addiction issues. 

This cause is close to our hearts – not only because we have dedicated our careers to mitigating the negative consequences of gambling, but also because we are both longtime residents of Virginia and have personally seen these machines in our neighborhood convenience stores.