01/22/2026
As gambling behavior increases throughout the state and beyond, the need for problem gambling treatment is at an all-time high. We are extremely fortunate to have robust problem gambling treatment resources in our state through the Nebraska Gamblers Assistance Program. For over three decades, this treatment has been a key component of reducing gambling-related harm in our state, reducing social costs, reducing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, and saving lives. However, this sustainability of this treatment is potentially in danger through current proposed legislation.
Legislative Bill 1072 calls “to eliminate the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling and transfer the Gamblers Assistance Program to the Division of Behavioral Health of the Department of Health and Human Services”. This would potentially impact the allocation of current funding used towards problem gambling treatment, putting the ability to treat current and future problem gamblers and their loved ones in jeopardy.
As gambling options have increased over the past decade, the number of problem gambling clients being treated in Nebraska has grown. This growth has been navigated with responsible financial stewardship, increased treatment providers, and increased promotion of available services, thanks to the efforts of the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling. As stated on the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling website, their organizational mission is “to counter the negative impact of gambling addiction with effective, evidence-based prevention and treatment services for Nebraskans and their families.” We wholeheartedly agree that Commission has delivered on this mission through their leadership, allowing for the delivery of compassionate and effective levels of care needed to encourage problem gambling recovery.
In congruence with NeCPG’s mission to encourage availability of treatment services for problem gamblers and their families, it is our organization’s position to recommend that the Nebraska Commission on Problem Gambling remain intact. At such a dangerous point of increased problematic gambling behavior, we feel that continuity of services is vital to ensure all Nebraskans mitigate the risks of gambling-related harm.
