FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Boston, MA (June 26, 2024) – The Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI), a non-profit legal research center focused on public health law, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Harry Levant as its new Director of Gambling Policy.
At Northeastern University, Harry has conducted extensive research dedicated to developing a public health approach to prevent harm related to gambling and gambling disorders. He is also an Internationally Certified Gambling Counselor (ICGC-I).
As Director of Gambling Policy, Dr. Levant will lead PHAI’s efforts in developing and promoting policies that protect public health and reduce gambling-related harm.
Harry holds a Doctorate in Law and Policy (LPD) from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Professional Clinical Counseling from La Salle University. He is a published author in various journals, newspapers, and magazines and frequently appears on television and radio to discuss gambling disorder prevention and treatment.
“It is a privilege to join Richard Daynard, Mark Gottlieb, and our team at the Public Health Advocacy Institute,” says Harry Levant. “I look forward to helping lead the response to the looming public health disaster caused by the rapid expansion of the gambling industry and online gambling.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Harry to our team,” said Mark Gottlieb, Executive Director of PHAI. “His dedication, commitment, and experience in gambling policy will be critical as we work to address gambling-related issues as a public health crisis.”
In December of 2023, PHAI and its Center for Public Health Litigation filed a class action lawsuit against DraftKings in Massachusetts. Dr. Levant emphasized the urgency of this action, stating, “The time has come to bring public health reform and regulation to the gambling industry because lives are in the balance.” In his new role, Harry will continue to play a crucial role in supporting this ongoing effort.
About The Public Health Advocacy Institute
The Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI) is a non-profit legal research center focused on public health law located at Northeastern University School of Law. In 2014, PHAI formed the Center for Public Health Litigation, a nonprofit law firm, which uses the civil justice system to improve public health by focusing on litigation targeting tobacco industry products, unhealthy foods, deceptive health marketing, and deceptive gambling practices.
To learn more about PHAI, visit phai.org.