A new 10-year effort launched Wednesday by New York state will survey residents on the effects of gambling and assess if additional services are needed to help problem gamblers.

The state Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) is administering the survey, which will reach New Yorkers age 18 and older across the state with the goal of guiding gambling-related services, Gov. Kathy Hochul said.   

The effort follows a dramatic expansion of gambling across New York, with three Native American casinos and four state-authorized commercial casinos opening, and the introduction of in-person and mobile sports betting, between 2015-2023. In December, the state authorized three new casino locations at Resorts World NYC in Queens, Bally’s at Ferry Point in the Bronx and Hard Rock at Citi Field. 

“As gambling opportunities continue to expand in New York State, we need to be proactive and determine where additional services may be needed to help those affected by gambling addiction,” OASAS Commissioner Chinazo Cunningham said in a statement.

Survey questionnaires, interviews and focus groups are part of the decade-long initiative, which will help compile data on the prevalence of gambling addiction and assist in planning prevention, treatment and recovery services. 

“New York State remains committed to helping those impacted by problem gambling, which can affect anyone, regardless of age or where they live,” Hochul said in a statement. “We look forward to gaining valuable insight into the gambling behaviors of New Yorkers as part of this effort, as we continue to work to raise awareness of this issue. This effort will help ensure we’re using real data to guide smart, targeted investments that protect New Yorkers and strengthen access to care.”

New Yorkers struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, can find help on the OASAS website or by calling the state’s toll-free line at 1-877-846-7369.