Univ. Of Md. Med School Gets $5M Problem Gambling Grant

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The University of Maryland School of Medicine says it has received a $5 million grant from the state to create a problem gambling center.

The university made the announcement Thursday. The center is being called a first of its kind in the state. A telephone helpline service to refer problem gamblers to treatment and a public awareness campaign are planned by the new center. Two annual statewide conferences, eight regional conferences and webinars to create a statewide network of health providers to help problem gamblers are also planned.

Maryland residents will be voting in November on proposals to add table games to slots parlors and a new casino site in Prince George's County.

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