Summary
- NCPG is thrilled that funds will now be dedicated to tackling gambling addiction within the military.
- For the very first time, funding has been specifically allocated to explore the impact of gambling on our military personnel.
- No one has truly explored how the presence of gambling on military bases impacts the lives of service members.
The National Council on Problem Gambling, along with Derek Longmeier, the President of the Board of Directors, has enthusiastically embraced the recent progress in addressing gambling challenges faced by members of the U.S. military.
Military personnel are affected by gambling – new funding wants to find out how exactly
The recent decision by the Senate Appropriations Committee marks a pivotal moment with their inclusion of a crucial new measure in the FY26 Senate Defense Appropriations Bill: the allocation of funds dedicated to researching gambling addiction. This initiative is groundbreaking, as it represents the first time ever that money is being set aside specifically for this purpose. The funding will be channeled through the Department of Defense's Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program, also known as PRMRP. Expressing his thoughts on this significant financial commitment, Longmeier emphasized that this move is not just necessary but long overdue; it arrives at a crucial time. Currently, at least 20 million Americans are grappling with gambling-related issues. Veterans and both active and reserve service members are particularly at risk compared to the wider population. Longmeier remarked, The Committee's decision will finally provide researchers, local VA clinicians, and military health officials with the resources to truly understand and tackle gambling addiction among those who have served. Grateful for the support, Longmeier acknowledged the National Council on Problem Gambling's allies in Congress for their instrumental role in prioritizing this vital issue and achieving this positive outcome. Senator Ben Ray Luján also shared his views on the importance of addressing this problem, emphasizing its impact on everyday Americans—especially those who have served or are currently serving in the military.
Bringing the issue into the public space and ear
Senator Luján passionately emphasized that service members and veterans struggling with gambling addiction deserve the same depth of support and understanding that we have extended to those battling PTSD, depression, and other behavioral health challenges. He pointed out the often-ignored issue within the military community: the pervasive and unaddressed problem of gambling addiction. Allocating more funding to tackle this issue is crucial, as it not only raises awareness and brings this sensitive topic into the spotlight but also helps secure the essential resources needed to combat it effectively.
