OPINION: Shining a light on problem gambling

The popularity of online gambling has exploded in recent years, especially with the introduction of new sports betting applications that have made it easier and simpler than ever to place a wager. 

Unfortunately, we have also seen a substantial increase in gambling abuse here in Oregon and across the country. Recent estimates show that nearly 7 million Americans are struggling with a gambling addiction. Many of these people also reported having one or more mental health disorders, as well as higher rates of alcohol and substance dependence.

In addition to individual harms, out-of-control gambling can cause severe financial and emotional problems for the entire family. Take, for example, someone who is taking out new loans they can’t afford or even stealing from loved ones to pay for their addiction. They may also lie, manipulate, and threaten family members to get what they want, leading not only to financial devastation but also long-lasting emotional and psychological trauma for everyone involved.

Problem gambling is clearly a serious problem that will only worsen if left unaddressed. Yet unlike drug and alcohol addiction, the federal government does not devote any resources to the prevention, study, and treatment of gambling addiction. 

That needs to change—and it’s precisely why I introduced the Gambling addiction Recovery, Treatment, and Investment (GRIT) Act in Congress.

The GRIT Act would create the first-ever federal funding stream dedicated to gambling addiction research and treatment. My legislation pulls from existing federal funding sources (read: it does not raise taxes by a single dime) and delivers them to state health agencies, nonprofits, and other local organizations that address gambling addiction and connect more Americans with treatment.

By making targeted investments in more research and treatment, we can prevent more people from falling into addiction and get folks into recovery. It’s a commonsense idea that will improve mental health and wellbeing for so many individuals and families in this country. 

I am proud to lead this bill along with U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). The GRIT Act is also supported by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and its state chapters in Oregon and Connecticut.

This editorial was written by Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06) for Pamplin Media Group. It published on Friday, January 12, 2024.