Kansas Gambling Survey: Negative Health Impacts Increasing

• A 2025 Kansas gambling addiction survey revealed that 20% of Kansans now fall into the “high-risk” gambling category, with 70% of those surveyed having gambled at least once in 2025.
• The rise in gambling is likely tied to the expansion of online and retail sports betting, which was legalized in Kansas in 2022 with SB 84.

TOKEPA, Kan. – A new Kansas gambling survey reveals significant increases in negative gambling behaviors since the legalization of Kansas sports betting in 2022.

The high-risk category for gambling in Kansas has grown from 4% in 2017 to 20% in 2025. Those among the high-risk category cite mental health issues, relationship problems, and financial stress. The survey, commissioned by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), noted a fivefold increase since 2017.

With several legal gambling forms available (online sports betting, the Kansas Lottery, retail sports books at casinos, Tribal and state-owned casinos), the state is collecting money from operators left and right. Retaining over $24 million in sports betting tax revenue from January 2024 to date, there are raising concerns over legal practices across the state.

Kansas offers several problem gambling resources, including the national hotline, educational toolkits and supportive materials. Officials in Kansas recommend preventing future gambling-related harm through expanded public announcements, state-funded treatment, and continued data monitoring.