SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 35

(By Senators Oliverio, Wells, Unger and Prezioso)


Designating March 9-16, 2008, as National Problem Gambling Awareness Week in West Virginia.

Whereas, On behalf of the citizens of West Virginia, the Senate joins the West Virginia Council on Problem Gambling in promoting March 9-16, 2008, as National Problem Gambling Awareness Week in West Virginia; and
Whereas, Promoting the awareness week provides individuals in the problem gambling community an opportunity to educate the public and policymakers about the social and financial effectiveness of services available for problem gambling; and
Whereas, Problem gambling is a public health issue affecting millions of Americans of all ages, races and ethnic backgrounds in all communities and 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 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 Senate and the West Virginia Council on Problem Gambling invite all residents of West Virginia to participate in National Problem Gambling Awareness Week; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate:
That the Senate hereby designates March 9-16, 2008, as National Problem Gambling Awareness Week in West Virginia; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Senate joins the West Virginia Council on Problem Gambling in encouraging all citizens to help spread the message that there is help for problem gamblers through treatment and in supporting those who are in treatment and recovery and their families.