BetMGM and FanDuel have partnered with the National Council on Problem Gambling to request problem gambling research to better serve active military and veterans.
The NCPG sent a letter in mid-June to Sens. Mitch McConnell and Chris Coons, chairman and ranking member of the Senate Appropriation Committee’s Subcommittee on Defense, asking that gambling addiction be included as an eligible research topic in the Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program as part of the FY26 defense appropriations bill.
“Despite the high prevalence and risk of gambling addiction amongst our service members and veterans, there is a lack of comprehensive research on how to best treat, intervene, and prevent this mental health issue within the military population,” the letter said. “… Strong bipartisan support for gambling addiction research for improved screening, treatment, and recovery will allow for lifesaving efforts for many of your constituents who have chosen to serve our country and their families.”
The letter was co-signed by 24 state affiliates along with BetMGM, FanDuel and MGM Resorts.
Actives, vets more at risk for problem gambling
Issues with gambling can exacerbate problems that already trouble veterans, the NCPG said, citing multiple scientific papers.
One cited study said the rate of lifetime homelessness is six times higher for veterans that have gambling problems. Another said around 40% of vets seeking treatment for gambling addiction have attempted suicide.
Another suggested that active and former military experience gambling addiction at double the rate of civilians.
“Problem gambling disproportionately impacts our military communities and has life altering impacts on service members who do not receive treatment,” said Cory Fox, VP of Public Policy and Sustainability at FanDuel. “We’re proud to stand with an industry coalition to ask that we support our service members and their families by adding gambling addiction as an eligible research topic in the Peer-Reviewed Medical Research Program.”
