Sports betting poses significant risks to American men, according to former presidential candidate Andrew Yang, who advocates for stricter industry regulations. Drawing from personal experience as a bettor, Yang highlights several concerning trends in a recent Newsweek op-ed.

The activity particularly appeals to men by combining sports, money, risk-taking, and social elements. Research shows men remain more vulnerable to betting addiction compared to women, alongside other addictive behaviors.

Key concerns identified by Yang include:

• Financial Impact: For every $1 spent on sports betting, $2 fails to reach investment accounts
• Increased Bankruptcy: Households with active sports bettors show higher bankruptcy rates, especially in lower-income brackets
• Domestic Violence: Research indicates a 9% rise in domestic violence cases linked to legalized sports betting
• Economic Strain: Particularly affects vulnerable and low-income men

With sports betting now legal in 39 states plus Washington, DC, Yang urges remaining states to resist industry expansion despite lobbying efforts. He emphasizes that online sports betting effectively functions as a regressive tax, causing financial and emotional distress among vulnerable populations.

Yang's recommendations include implementing stronger regulations in states where betting is already legal and preventing further expansion in states currently considering legalization. He specifically advises Alabama, Alaska, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Minnesota, Missouri, Texas, and Utah to maintain their current restrictions on sports betting.

These concerns are supported by multiple academic studies, including research from Brigham Young University, Northwestern University, the University of Kansas, UCLA, and USC, which document negative impacts on credit scores and financial stability.

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