A New Era for Florida's Gambling Helpline
Florida Plans to Appoint Kindbridge as Operator for State Gambling Hotline Service
Looks like Florida's gambling helpline is about to see some changes, according to a report by Fox 29 on March 26. The Florida Gaming Control Commission, the state's gambling regulator, has announced a switch in operators.
Welcoming the Kindbridge Research Institute
The new operator taking over is the Kindbridge Research Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to spearheading breakthrough solutions for addictive behaviors and disorders, and furthering research in the field.
The Kindbridge Research Institute will oversee the toll-free helpline and plans to offer training services to employees at slot machine venues, helping them spot the early signs of addiction and intervene effectively.
The previous operator, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, couldn't agree on the specifics of renewing their contract past its 2024 expiration date.
Financial Struggles and Disagreements
Jennifer Kruse, the Executive Director of the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling, pointed to financial reasons and the regulator's refusal to negotiate as the cause for the decision to withdraw. She stated that the Council was understaffed and short on funds due to the lapsed contract with the state, leading to limited resources for hard copy literature and difficulties filling vacant positions.
However, a separate report by Casino Reports suggested that the Florida Gaming Control Commission had initially offered a renewed contract to the Council, but the offer was declined, causing the contract to lapse on July 1, 2024.
In a recent letter to lawmakers, a lawyer for the Council argued that they were presented with a non-negotiable contract terms, making an acceptable renewal impossible. The central issue was the new reporting conditions demanded by the watchdog, which would have been impossible to implement with the Council's limited staff and resources.
Kindbridge's Commitment and Capabilities
While the Kindbridge Research Institute focuses on advancing research and providing advisory services, Kindbridge Behavioral Health, its sister organization, delivers clinical services and applies cutting-edge research on addiction and problem gambling to treatment programs.
As the Kindbridge Research Institute steps in to manage Florida's gambling helpline, it remains to be seen how their approach and capabilities will shape the future of the service.
- The Florida Gaming Control Commission has appointed Kindbridge Research Institute to renew and operate the gambling helpline, starting from a yet-to-be-determined Wednesday.
- In addition to managing the helpline, Kindridge Research Institute will provide training to employees at casino venues to help them recognize early signs of gambling addiction and offer effective interventions.
- Despite financial difficulties, the Florida Council on Compulsive Gambling was initially offered a renewed contract by the Florida Gaming Control Commission, but the offer was declined, leading to the Council's withdrawal from operating the gambling helpline.
