Problem Gambling Act Introduced In Congress 

June 18, 2009 - Written by Renee

On June 17, 2009, Congressmen Jim Moran (D-VA), Lee Terry (R-NE) and Frank Wolf (R-VA) introduced H.R. 2906, the Comprehensive Problem Gambling Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill assumes importance in the fact that over six million Americans will be afflicted by problem gambling this year. The bill seeks to address this problem through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. It proposes to allocate $71 million over five years for grants to state health agencies, tribes, universities and non-profit organizations that are engaged in problem gambling prevention, treatment and research. Problem gambling behavior is the individual’s inability to stop gambling despite it being socially and economically harmful to his or her situation. Problem gambling can lead to bankruptcy, divorce, job loss, incarceration, depression and even suicidal behavior.  

The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) is one of the leading institutions working in this field. Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the NCPG, said, “We applaud the actions of Representatives Moran, Terry, and Wolf in introducing this legislation. Problem gambling is a serious public health issue that has been overlooked by the federal government for far too long. We know that it is both preventable and treatable, and this bill will help ensure that all Americans will have access to these services.” He called for a bipartisan approach to this legislation and called upon every member of the Congress to support it. Whyte also requested those who have suffered because of problem gambling and those who are otherwise involved with it to get in touch with their legislators and urge them to support the bill.