New US bill proposes federal funding for responsible gaming
The Providing Opportunities for Individuals in Need of Treatment and Support (POINTS) Act proposes to expand prevention, treatment and recovery services.
US.- A new bipartisan bill has been introduced in Congress proposing to expand prevention, treatment, and recovery services for people with gambling addiction. The Opportunities for Individuals in Need of Treatment and Support (POINTS) Act was introduced by representatives Erin Houchin, Andrea Salinas, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and Troy Carter.
Under HR 7875, the federal government would dedicate funding to addressing gambling addiction for the first time, redirecting a portion of the federal excise tax on sports wagers to prevention, treatment and recovery services. Houchin said the move would generate approximately $100m annually to support programmes that help individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.
Put forward during what is Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the bill is the first bipartisan legislation on gambling addiction proposed in Congress in more than 15 years. It’s supported by the National Council on Problem Gambling, Mental Health America of Indiana and the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling.
Houchin said: “Gambling addiction can quietly devastate families. The financial damage and emotional strain often build over time and affect far more than the person placing the bet. I’ve seen how those consequences can impact loved ones and communities. As access to sports betting and online gambling grows, we have a responsibility to confront the addiction that can follow. The POINTS Act directs existing federal gaming revenue towards prevention, treatment, and recovery programmes to help people get back on their feet.”
Salinas added: “As sports betting and online gambling continue to expand across the country, we have a responsibility to ensure people struggling with addiction are not left behind. Gambling addiction can devastate individuals and families, yet too many communities still lack the resources needed to provide prevention, treatment, and recovery support. The POINTS Act helps close that gap by investing existing gambling excise tax revenue into programmes that expand care, raise awareness, and connect people to the help they need.”
Miller-Meeks commented: “Gambling addiction is a serious and growing challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities across our country. The POINTS Act takes an important step towards expanding prevention, treatment, and recovery services for those who need them most. By supporting states as they strengthen programmes, train providers, and expand access to care, including in rural communities, we can ensure more Americans struggling with gambling addiction have a pathway to help and hope. I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort to improve access to treatment and support for those facing addiction.”
Heather L. Maurer, executive director of NCPG, stated: “The POINTS Act recognises that gambling addiction is a public health issue requiring a coordinated national response. States and tribes need stable federal support to expand access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services. This legislation provides a responsible and sustainable funding mechanism to meet that need.”
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