Lawmakers reintroduce GRIT Act
Senator Richard Blumenthal and Representative Andrea Salinas have introduced the Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment Act to the federal legislature.
The proposed bill would use 50% of the federal sports excise tax to fund addiction treatment and research.
The bill has been endorsed by the National Council on Problem Gambling, the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling, and the Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling.
Blumenthal (pictured) is a Senator for Connecticut, while Salinas is a Representative for Oregon, hence the support from the respective councils on problem gambling from those states.
Senator Blumenthal said, “The growing legalization of sports betting coupled with the ability to place bets from your phone whenever you want have created the perfect storm for gambling addiction –resulting in a severe public health crisis.
The Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment Act was first introduced in January 2024 as part of the 118th Congress, which has now ended. During the year since then, a subcommittee on health from the House Committee on Energy and Commerce considered the act.
While Blumenthal called for more action ahead of March Madness, the bill stayed in committee and lawmakers took no further action.
“The GRIT Act will allocate dedicated federal funding to tackle problem gambling head-on, allowing individuals suffering from gambling addiction to access support, resources, and treatment. With this legislation, we work to stop addiction and save lives.”
Salinas commented, “Gambling can be a fun and harmless form of entertainment when enjoyed in moderation. Unfortunately, the rapid rise in online gambling has made it easier than ever to place bets – leading to a drastic increase in the number of Americans who are struggling with a gambling addiction.”
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