Michigan Woman Warns Ohio After Losing $2M Online Gambling

A Michigan woman has lost $2 million in six months through online blackjack gambling, which led to the loss of her home, business, cars, and retirement. She began gambling during financial difficulties caused by COVID-19-related increases in lumber costs and initially won $25,000 on the first day but quickly spiraled into heavy losses. Despite attempts to quit, some online casinos continued to provide her with funds, enabling her addiction, and it was only after her husband confronted her about financial troubles that she stopped. Her story has become a cautionary tale amid Ohio's legislative efforts to legalize online casinos through bills proposing games like roulette and poker, with supporters citing economic benefits but opponents raising concerns about addiction and associated risks, including increased suicide rates. Lawmakers have proposed restrictions such as age limits and participation caps to mitigate harm, but the woman's experience highlights the potential dangers of online gambling expansion. Four years later, she is warning others to be cautious and questioning the ethics of states profiting from gambling losses.