Washington, D.C. Today 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. “We applaud the actions of Representatives Moran, Terry, and Wolf in introducing this legislation,” said Keith Whyte, Executive Director of the National Council on Problem Gambling. “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.” The bill authorizes the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to address problem gambling and appropriates $71 million over five years for grants to state health agencies, tribes, universities and non-profits to support problem gambling prevention, treatment and research programs.

H.R. 2906 will boost existing efforts and alleviate pressure on state agencies and local nonprofits who daily deal with the devastating consequences of this disorder—from bankruptcy, divorce, job loss, incarceration, depression and despair to a high rate of suicidal behavior. More than six million adults will meet criteria for a gambling problem this year. “NCPG calls on every member of Congress to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation,” said Whyte. “We ask all those concerned with gambling issues to contact their legislators to urge their support as well.”

The NCPG is the national advocate for programs and services to assist problem gamblers and their families. Founded in 1972 as the advocate for problem gamblers, NCPG does not take a position for or against gambling and concentrates on the goal of helping those with gambling problems. NCPG members include 35 state affiliate chapters, organizations and individuals from across the country. NCPG is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and does not accept any restrictions on contributions.