From significant personal and professional experience, I understand the painful realities of gambling addiction. I have worked as a social worker for years, witnessing firsthand how destructive and pervasive this addiction can be, no different than the impact of drugs or alcohol. It's devastating to see individuals and families torn apart due to gambling, many times instigated and exacerbated by the relentless promotion of online gambling on the internet. Our modern digital era's convenience should not act as a gateway to addiction.

Though specific statistics vary, studies consistently show that exposure to gambling-related ads is associated with gambling-related attitudes, intentions, and behaviors (Hing, Russell, Li & Vitartas 2018). Consequently, it affects vulnerable individuals, such as problem gamblers or minors, the most.

Therefore, it's essential to address the root of this problem - to halt the promotion and advertising of online gambling. We need to focus on public policy to protect individuals and the wider community from being influenced to take part in actions that can lead to a detrimental path.

This petition calls for legislation preventing the promotion of online gambling activities. It insists on an immediate review of advertising regulations, focusing on creating legal restrictions, similar to those on drugs and alcohol, against these potentially harmful advertisements.

Please sign this petition. Together, we can make a stand against detrimental online gambling advertisements and take a significant step toward protecting those at risk.