Nova Scotia Weighs Online Gambling Expansion Amid Opposition Concerns
Nova Scotia Finance Minister John Lohr confirmed discussions are underway about expanding online casino and sports betting, following moves by Ontario and Alberta. Opposition leaders have urged caution, citing risks to mental health and public safety.
Nova Scotia Finance Minister John Lohr has confirmed that conversations regarding the potential expansion of online casino and sports betting are currently underway in the province. The discussions follow precedents set by other Canadian jurisdictions, with Ontario opening its online gambling market to private operators in 2022 and Alberta following suit in July.
Lohr acknowledged that Nova Scotians are already wagering on Ontario-regulated and offshore platforms, a trend that diverts potential tax revenue away from the province. He cited this loss of revenue and the ease of access to unregulated sites as significant issues. However, he emphasized that no decision has been made yet.
The Atlantic Lottery Corporation launched online casino-style gambling in 2022, adding to the existing digital landscape.
Opposition leaders have urged caution regarding any further expansion. NDP Leader Claudia Chender warned against government involvement in expanded online gambling, comparing it to "the cigarettes of my generation" due to its addictive nature and social harm. Interim Liberal Leader Iain Rankin called for a risk assessment before expanding gambling services, citing increased emergency room visits linked to problem gambling in other provinces.
Concerns about the proliferation of gambling advertising have also been raised. A CBC News investigation found that viewers were exposed to roughly 3,000 gambling messages across seven televised playoff hockey games featuring Canadian teams earlier this year. Ninety-five per cent of those messages lacked harm reduction or age restrictions, raising concerns about the exposure of children to gambling advertisements.
Critics warn that an expansion could lead to a potential erosion of mental health supports related to gambling.