Published on: March 12, 2026, 12:13h.
Updated on: March 12, 2026, 12:13h.
- “What’s Really at Stake?” is a Pennsylvania initiative aimed at reducing underage gambling
- The public service announcement originates from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
- March is recognized as Problem Gambling Awareness Month
Gambling in Pennsylvania has surged, with player losses nearly hitting $6.8 billion in 2025. As advertisements for sports betting proliferate and casinos continue to expand statewide, the regulatory body overseeing this burgeoning market is proactively working to limit underage gambling and its associated risks.
Recently, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) introduced its latest campaign, “What’s Really at Stake?” featuring the tagline, “Underage gambling will cost you.”
The PGCB aims to leverage social media, online advertisements, and a dedicated website (WhatsReallyatStake.com) to enhance awareness around the critical issue of underage gambling.
The regulated gambling environment overseen by the PGCB, particularly online gambling, is intended solely for individuals aged 21 and older. Licensed operators in Pennsylvania have various mechanisms to prevent underage gambling, yet the rise of illegal, unregulated sites that lack these protective measures significantly contributes to this ongoing issue,” stated Kevin O’Toole, chair of the PGCB.
O’Toole’s statement refers to illegal offshore casino websites, as well as the controversial sweepstakes casinos that market themselves as social gaming but have been criticized for engaging in illegal online gambling through dual-currency systems.
Moreover, Pennsylvania faces challenges with unregulated skill games, which are often marketed as suitable for those 18 and up. Unlike traditional casinos, locations hosting skill games like restaurants and convenience stores often lack the security measures needed to prevent minors from accessing gambling terminals.
Risks Associated with Underage Gambling
Experts in responsible gaming have consistently pointed out the numerous risks linked to underage gambling.
Josh Ercole, executive director of the Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA, expressed support for the PGCB’s “What’s Really at Stake?” campaign. He previously testified before the state’s House Gaming Oversight Committee, stating that online prediction markets, which require participants to be 18+, have led to a substantial rise in helpline calls from individuals aged 18 to 24.
“In recent years, we have seen an uptick in helpline calls from young people in Pennsylvania,” Ercole remarked in the PGCB release. “The ease of access, especially through unregulated gambling formats, makes it vital to have open discussions about the associated risks and harms. Early exposure to such activities, regardless of how innocent they may seem, can lead to serious future challenges.”
March also marks the National Council on Problem Gambling’s annual Problem Gambling Awareness Month. The national nonprofit organization reports that nearly two-thirds (65%) of adults aged 21 and older have engaged in some form of gambling before turning 21.
“Young individuals are at a much higher risk of developing gambling-related issues. As gambling becomes more normalized in media, sports, and online platforms, these risks escalate,” emphasized Heather Maurer, executive director of NCPG. “Education and prevention efforts are crucial to ensure that young people, families, educators, and lawmakers are aware of potential harms and are safeguarded against early exposure.”
Lottery Paradox
While mental health professionals and advocates for responsible gambling agree that teenagers should not be exposed to gambling until they are at least 21, it’s somewhat ironic that the Pennsylvania Lottery, along with most state-run lotteries, allows participation at 18.
Traditionally, 18 has been seen as the age marking adulthood, but the drinking age has often taken precedence due to the inclusion of alcohol in casinos. Consequently, new gambling formats like sports betting have adopted a 21+ age restriction.