Problem Gambling: An Emerging Issue for State Behavioral Health Systems

Since the US Supreme Court eliminated the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, many states have legalized sports betting and eased other gambling restrictions. Gambling is now more accessible than ever, and gambling rates are on the rise. Rates of problem gambling and gambling disorder may be growing, too. States are playing a key role in problem gambling services, with implications and opportunities for the entire behavioral health sector. This information brief prevents changes in the gambling landscape, the scope of problem gambling and gambling disorder, and the role that states play in problem gambling services.