NCPG Backs GRIT Act Relaunch to Combat Growing Gambling Addiction Crisis
The GRIT Act, reintroduced by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Representative Andrea Salinas (D-OR), establishes the first federal funding stream for gambling addiction treatment, prevention, and research across the United States.
As sports betting and gambling expand rapidly nationwide, this legislation addresses the growing need for addiction support services through strategic funding allocation of the federal sports betting excise tax.
Key Components of the GRIT Act:
- Directs 50% of federal sports betting excise tax to addiction programs
- Allocates 75% to state-level prevention and treatment through SAMHSA
- Designates 25% for gambling addiction research via the National Institute on Drug Abuse
- Utilizes existing Health & Human Services infrastructure
- Provides sustained funding for 10 years
- Requires effectiveness reporting within three years
The legislation works through established systems to avoid creating new bureaucracy while helping states develop long-term solutions and best practices for addressing gambling addiction.
"Federal funding for gambling addiction research, prevention, and treatment is long overdue," states Susan Sheridan Tucker, President of the National Council on Problem Gambling Board. "This legislation provides essential support for those impacted by gambling addiction."
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
Free, confidential help is available 24/7.
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