Social Effects Economic Effects Special Programs & Services      Unlike the costs of problem gambling, which are generally measured insofar as the impacts on individuals, the benefits and costs associated with economic factors of gambling opportunities are often reported in terms of the effects on communities. In addition to increased entertainment and employment opportunities, the presence of gambling within communities is promoted with assurances of increased property values, tax revenues, tourism and recreation. The presence of gambling venues has also brought increased construction and growth in the hotel industry, as well as economic benefits to disadvantaged communities.      Overall, little is definitively known as to the economic effects of problem gambling or the financial impacts and costs associated with debt, insurance, medical payments, or costs factors to employers or the criminal justice system.      The National Opinion Research Council (NORC), under contract with the National Gambling Impact Study Commission, conducted a study in 1998, which revealed that overall, problem and pathological gamblers in the United States cost society approximately $5 billion per year and an additional $40 billion in lifetime costs for productivity reductions, social services and creditor losses. (NOTE: The NORC report focused on a small number of tangible consequences and, as a result, its calculations are conservative and reflect minimums.)      A Florida study of the effects of casino gambling, conducted by the Florida Office of Planning and Budgeting (1994), concluded that the net cost of casinos in Florida range from $2.16 to $3.25 billion.      There are also studies documenting the positive economic impacts that gambling has had on communities and Native American territories. Further, it is anticipated that proponents and opponents of the gambling controversy will continue to keep this issue in the public eye. As such, it is important to weigh both sides of the equation for a balanced perspective.