Illinois bill seeks to classify compulsive gambling as substance abuse disorder
Illinois lawmakers are advancing a bill that would classify compulsive gambling as a substance use disorder, seeking to expand resources for prevention and treatment.
The bill would add gambling disorder to the Substance Use Disorder Act, WCIA.com reported. This, in turn, would enable the Illinois Department of Human Services to create programs for the prevention, recognition, and treatment of the disorder and fund grants for local intervention programs.
“Gambling releases dopamine and can quickly escalate from a fun pastime to a serious issue,” said State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest). "By recognizing gambling disorder as a health condition, we are breaking down barriers to treatment and recovery."
A 2021 report by the IDHS found that 3.8% of Illinois adults experience problems related to gambling, with an additional 7.7% at risk of developing such issues.
Morrison highlighted the critical need for a supportive care system. “When gambling gets out of hand, it can have a snowball effect on a person’s life,” she said. “It’s important that a system of care is in place to support individuals without judgment as they recover.”
The bill passed the Senate unanimously last week. Full text of the bill is available on the Illinois General Assembly’s website.
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