March Madness prompts concerns over underage sports gambling

March Madness is here, and many businesses in the Chicago area are preparing for large crowds as the NCAA basketball tournaments begin. Bars and restaurants expect to be very busy, especially during game days. At Real Time Sports in Elk Grove Village, the owner, Ben Cirrincione, gets ready for his busiest time of the year. He says people will come to enjoy drinks and food while watching the games. Others are gathering to fill out their brackets for the tournament. The excitement for March Madness also brings a surge in sports gambling. Americans are projected to bet around $3.1 billion on the tournament. Les Bernal from Stop Predatory Gambling notes that gambling has moved from the fringe to being a central part of the sports experience. The NCAA is worried about the impact of gambling on college athletes, and they are planning to air an ad during the tournament to raise awareness. Some experts emphasize that this gambling trend may particularly affect teenagers, as current laws do not stop them from participating in fantasy sports betting. Bernal warns of a growing issue with underage gambling, calling it an epidemic. Sports betting experts believe it will be up to lawmakers to change rules and close loopholes that allow young people to gamble.