MOORHEAD  — We’re in the midst of March Madness, but this time around, it’s not just about the sports in Minnesota.

During this month, about one in five Americans are expected to gamble.

And the Minnesota legislature is working on a bill to legalize sports betting.

That’s got some therapists in our region worried.

Currently, there are only are only 19 licensed gambling counselors in Minnesota.

They want to make sure problem bettors get the help they need once the state makes it easier to gamble.

Many people don’t realize gambling can create a physical addiction in some people’s brains, just like drugs and alcohol can.

These experts want to see the new bill pass with consumer protections in place, funding for access to treatment, and a limit on ads for gambling.

They also want it to provide for gambling education for young people, who are more at risk of developing a gambling problem.

Gambling Disorder Clinical Lead Lisa Vig visited the Morning Show to talk about how you can spot the signs of a problem, and what you can do if you need help.

For more information:

https://f.io/C63ZXX1r

or call the Minnesota Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-333-4673 (1-800-333-HOPE)