Mass. Agencies Sign Agreement To Address Problem Gamblers

Massachusetts gambling regulators have signed an agreement with the state's health and human services agency to address problem gambling.

The agreement, which was finalized Thursday, requires the state Gaming Commission and Executive Office of Health and Human Services to work together to ensure proper use of a public health fund created by the state's 2011 casino law.

Specifically, the agreement creates a committee comprised of representatives and designees from both agencies to oversee spending and outline priorities for the Public Health Trust Fund. The fund will draw from annual casino and slot parlor revenues and a portion of state gambling license fees.

The fund is meant to support programs addressing gambling addiction and substance abuse, including studies about the social and economic impacts of introducing Las Vegas-style gambling to the state.