Lottery interfering in gambler hotline, critics say

The Problem Gamblers Help Network of West Virginia has received national and international recognition for its efforts to help gambling addicts. For several years, the network has received funding through a grant from the state Department of Health and Human Resources. The money came from the state Lottery Commission. But on July 1, the state Lottery Commission is taking direct responsibility for the program. Lottery officials have decided to bid out the contract to help problem gamblers. 

Critics say it’s a conflict of interest. One critic worries that that the Lottery Commission won’t protect the privacy of problem gamblers. Lottery officials say they would never ask for confidential information about people who seek help. But it’s happened before. Scott Finn reports.

• lottery-interfering-in-gambler-hotline-critics-say.doc

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