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The Comprehensive Problem Gambling Act marks the first time Congress may address the need for education and therapy regarding the suffering of compulsive gamblers. The National Council on Problem Gambling saluted the measure, introduced last month by Representatives Jim Moran, Lee Terry, and Frank Wolf.
“Problem gambling is a serious public health issue that has been overlooked by the federal government for far too long," said Keith Whyte, the council's executive director. The bill would allocate $71 million over the next five years to fund both research and treatment programs.
The funding would be administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and would issue grants to universities, non-profit organizations, and state agencies who seek to educate the public about problem gambling, as well as take preventative measures, treat victims, and research causation.
“NCPG calls on every member of Congress to support this commonsense, bipartisan legislation,” said Whyte.
Whyte stressed that his organization is neither for nor against gambling, but designed to help the small percentage of gamblers who cannot control their impulses.
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