NJ lawmakers propose help for problem gamblers who commit crime
A bill has been introduced intended to offer treatment for people with gambling addiction that turn to crime.
US.- Assemblyman Ralph Caputo in New Jersey has proposed a bill that would provide non-violent lawbreakers who commit a crime due to gambling addiction with treatment rather than a prison sentence.
The bill proposes three locations in New Jersey to provide services for a new court gambling treatment programme: in the north, south and central region of the state. The programme would be observed by mental health experts.
According to Caputo, gambling addictions cause economic and financial problems for families, and the bill is aimed to bring help to those families.
A similar framework has been introduced in Nevada, and the programme is reported to be successful.
Besides Caputo, other supporters of the bill include Dan Benson, and Anthony Verrelli. The bill now needs approval from New Jersey’s Assembly Judiciary Committee.
