Summary:

This report focuses on one aspect of the broader SEIGMA study and summarizes findings from baseline and follow-up targeted population surveys carried out in Springfield and surrounding communities.

The baseline targeted survey was conducted in 2015, soon after the announcement of the award of license to MGM Resorts International. The follow-up targeted survey was conducted in 2019, one year after the opening of MGM Springfield in June 2018. The Springfield Baseline and Follow-up Targeted Population Surveys largely used the same methodology as the state-wide Baseline General Population Survey (BGPS) that was conducted in 2013 and 2014.

Findings from these surveys are important to help understand changes in attitudes toward gambling, gambling behavior, the prevalence of problem gambling, and awareness of and involvement in problem gambling services in the wake of the introduction of a major gambling venue. The findings will contribute to the development of strategies to minimize gambling-related harm and bring the greatest possible benefit of expanded gaming to the people of the Commonwealth.