U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal have introduced a bill that would fund problem gambling research and treatment at the federal level for the first time.
The Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment (GRIT) Act would create a federal funding stream dedicated to helping prevent, treat, and study gambling addiction in the United States.
According to the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG), gambling addiction is a “significant public health concern,” affecting approximately 7 million American adults, and resulting in severe social and economic consequences.
The annual social cost of problem gambling is estimated at $7 billion, reflecting gambling-related criminal justice and health care spending as well as job loss and bankruptcy.
NCPG research indicates that the risk for gambling addiction rose by 30 percent between 2018 and 2021 alone, yet there are currently no federal funds dedicated to gambling addiction treatment or research.
“This gap underscores the pressing need for comprehensive measures to address and mitigate the impact of gambling addiction,” the NCPG said in a statement.
Key provisions of the GRIT Act include:
- Allocating 50 percent of the current federal sports excise tax revenue for gambling addiction treatment and research administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
- Health and Human Services distribution of 75 percent to states for prevention and treatment through the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant program and direct the remaining 25 percent to the National Institute of Drug Abuse for research grants into gambling addiction.
- Authorizing spending for 10 years and mandating a report to Congress on the program’s effectiveness within three years of passage.
The impact of the GRIT Act would direct and vital support to state health agencies and nonprofits addressing gambling problems, agencies that have been extremely underfunded. It also would create investment in best practices and comprehensive research at the national level.
The GRIT Act would not raise taxes or create additional bureaucracy. It would leverage existing federal excise tax revenue and operate within the existing Health and Human Services framework.
Keith Whyte, executive director of the NCPG, expressed gratitude for the leadership of Blumenthal and Salinas.
“The introduction of the GRIT Act is a testament to our shared commitment to mitigating gambling-related harm and addressing the challenges of gambling addiction,” Whyte said. “This landmark legislation sets the stage to significantly bolster gambling addiction prevention, research, and treatment resources and make a positive lasting impact on individuals and communities nationwide.”
Susan Sheridan Tucker, President of the NCPG Board of Directors, emphasized the urgent need for federal intervention, stating, “The GRIT Act reflects a pivotal step towards long-overdue support for those grappling with gambling addiction. We commend Senator Blumenthal and Representative Salinas for their dedication to addressing the burgeoning public health crisis of gambling addiction. The National Council on Problem Gambling stands in full support of this legislation, recognizing its potential to make a lasting difference in the lives of individuals and families across the nation.”
“Gambling addictions are hurting countless families, children, and communities in Oregon and across America,” said Salinas in a statement. “Yet unlike alcohol and drug addictions, there are currently no federal funds devoted solely to helping stop problem gambling,” said Salinas.
“Our legislation will deliver much-needed resources to states and nonprofits, promoting new research and ensuring more people can get into treatment and recovery. This is a common-sense solution and I urge my colleagues to join us in supporting it.”
“The growing legalization of sports and online betting, paired with the ability to place bets from your phone whenever you want have created a perfect storm for gambling addiction,” Blumenthal added.
“Dedicated federal resources to tackle problem gambling head-on will provide much-needed support, resources, and treatment for those suffering from gambling addiction. As the number of Americans who are suffering from gambling addiction surges, legislation like the GRIT Act is needed now more than ever.”
