NCPG Welcomes New State Affiliates in Texas and Vermont

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) today announced the addition of the Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling and the Vermont Council on Gaming and Health as its newest state Affiliate members, joining a growing community of organizations dedicated to advancing prevention, education, treatment, and recovery for those impacted by problem gambling.

While NCPG advocates for problem gambling programs, policies, and funding at the national level, its state affiliates focus efforts closer to home – connecting individuals and families with local resources, community partners, and culturally relevant support. With these new additions, NCPG now has Affiliates in 37 states.

“Every state has a unique gambling landscape, but the need for prevention and support is universal,” said Derek Longmeier, NCPG Board President. “Affiliate organizations are vital partners in NCPG’s mission. The Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling and the Vermont Council on Gaming and Health, alongside all NCPG Affiliates are the front line of community engagement, education, and direct support. Together, we serve as the foundation for a unified nationwide safety net – working in tandem to expand access to care, strengthen prevention, and build a more coordinated public health response to problem gambling.” 

While Vermont allocates annual state funding for problem gambling prevention and treatment, Texas remains one of just seven states without any dedicated public funding for problem gambling services. In the U.S., substance use disorders are about seven times more common than gambling disorders, while public funding for substance abuse treatment is about 338 times greater than public funding for all problem gambling services, underscoring the importance of NCPG’s leadership and state Affiliates in expanding access to help. 

“In the short time the Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling (TXCPG) has been the NCPG state affiliate, the opportunities for collaboration and developing new resources for Texans have multiplied,” said Carol Ann Maner, President, Texas Coalition on Problem Gambling, Inc. “TXCPG is committed to joining with state and national partners to start where we are – and reduce the impact of gambling harms in Texas as they exist today.”  

“At the Vermont Council on Gaming and Health, prevention is our foundation and advocacy powers our progress. We champion consumer protections and safer gambling environments by equipping families with youth-focused education, strengthening provider expertise in problem gambling treatment, and working with legislators and operators to address the evolving risks of online gaming,” stated Marlene Warner, CEO, Vermont Council on Gaming and Health. “Our partnership with NCPG amplifies this work, reinforcing Vermont’s commitment to public health and community driven care.” 

Nationwide, 71 percent of adults reported gambling in 2024, while 8 percent – nearly 20 million Americans – experienced at least one indicator of problematic gambling behavior “many times” in the past year.