The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) endorses the reintroduction of the Gambling addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment (GRIT) Act by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Representative Andrea Salinas (D-OR). This groundbreaking legislation establishes the first federal funding stream for gambling addiction treatment, prevention, and research nationwide.

The GRIT Act arrives at a crucial time as sports betting and gambling expansion create an urgent need for comprehensive addiction services. This bipartisan initiative will direct 50% of federal sports betting excise tax toward gambling addiction programs.

Key Features of the GRIT Act:

• 75% of funds go to states and health agencies for addiction prevention and treatment through SAMHSA
• 25% is allocated to the National Institute on Drug Abuse for research grants
• Utilizes existing Health & Human Services programs, requiring no new bureaucracy
• Mandates effectiveness reporting within three years
• Provides sustained funding for 10 years to develop best practices

The legislation aims to strengthen state-level prevention and treatment programs while reducing gambling-related harm through sustainable funding and research initiatives.

"Federal funding for gambling addiction research, prevention, and treatment is long overdue, and the GRIT Act is a critical step in addressing this urgent need," says Susan Sheridan Tucker, NCPG Board President.

Support Resources: If you or someone you know struggles with gambling addiction, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline:

• Call: 1-800-GAMBLER
• Text: 800GAM
• Visit: www.1800gamblerchat.org

The helpline provides free, confidential support 24/7 without stigma or judgment.

For additional information: Contact: Cait Huble Email: [email protected]

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