Pennsylvania Representatives Tarkin Khan and Jamie Flick announced a bipartisan package that addresses problem gambling and strengthens consumer protections.

Pennsylvanians have gained around-the-clock access to online casinos and sportsbooks through phones, tablets and computers since they were legalized nearly a decade ago.

The explosive growth of online gambling, increasingly aggressive marketing practices and a lack of commonsense guardrails have caused some individuals to raise concerns about addiction, personal debt and the impact of problem gambling on individuals, families and communities.

Although many individuals gamble responsibly, problem gambling is recognized as a public health issue because of the significant harm it can cause to mental health, families and overall well-being. Young men, in particular, are increasingly exposed to online gambling platforms and targeted advertising.

Like most states, Pennsylvania offers a voluntary self-exclusion list. In practice, it’s used either by people who don’t want to gamble at all, or who have admitted issues with problem gambling. Once a bettor places themselves on the list, they can choose a ban of one year, five years or a lifetime ban.

During the selected period, the person is prohibited from entering a brick-and-mortar casino or from making online wagers. Should the person evade restrictions and place a wager, any winnings would be forfeited, and the person risks arrest.

The ban on mailers would stop casinos and mobile gaming operators from sending mailers to anyone on the self-exclusion list. This would require operators to keep their own list to know who they can’t include. The commonwealth believes that would limit temptation, as people on the list wouldn’t easily learn of promotions.

Khan and Flick’s bills would go further. They would limit text notifications from operators, increase funding to fight problem gambling and limit ads in spaces aimed at people under 21.