Bipartisan POINTS Act 2026 Aims to Combat Gambling Addiction

As legal sports betting and online gambling expand across the U.S., a new federal proposal seeks to address the growing public health crisis of gambling addiction. The Providing Opportunities for Individuals in Need of Treatment and Support (POINTS) Act of 2026, introduced by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, marks one of the most significant federal efforts in over a decade to tackle this issue.

What Is the POINTS Act 2026?

Rep. Erin Houchin (R-IN) and Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-OR), alongside Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and Troy Carter (D-LA), unveiled the POINTS Act during Problem Gambling Awareness Month. The legislation proposes redirecting a portion of existing sports wagering tax revenue to fund prevention, treatment, and recovery services for those affected by gambling addiction.

Key Features of the Bill

Funding Source: Allocates one-third of the federal excise tax on sports wagers (0.25% of betting handle) to addiction services.

Estimated Impact: Advocates project this could generate $100 million annually for programs like screening, telehealth, and crisis support.

Grants: Funds would support state and tribal initiatives, public education, and peer support networks.

Why This Legislation Matters

“Gambling addiction can quietly devastate families,” Houchin stated, highlighting the financial and emotional toll on communities. The bill responds to urgent gaps in existing support systems. For example, the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) recently announced it could no longer operate the national problem gambling hotline due to funding cuts.

Rising Risks in the Digital Age

With mobile betting apps and online platforms making gambling more accessible, younger adults face heightened risks. Lawmakers also note concerns about military personnel, who may be more vulnerable to gambling harms due to stress and financial pressures.

Support and Challenges

The National Council on Problem Gambling has endorsed the POINTS Act, calling it a “major step” toward treating gambling addiction as a national public health issue. However, critics argue the bill’s reliance on existing tax revenue may not be sufficient to address the scale of the problem.

How the Funds Would Be Used

Prevention: Public education campaigns and school-based screening programs.

Treatment: Telehealth services and grants for healthcare providers to identify at-risk individuals.

Recovery: Peer support networks and real-time crisis intervention hotlines.

Next Steps for the POINTS Act

If passed, the bill would allocate funds starting in fiscal year 2027. Federal agencies would report annually to Congress on program effectiveness. Supporters argue the legislation ensures support services grow alongside the gambling industry itself.

“As sports betting expands, we must ensure no one is left behind,” Salinas emphasized. The POINTS Act represents a bipartisan effort to balance economic growth with public health responsibility.