Illinois lawmakers are working to classify compulsive gambling as a substance abuse disorder with a bill in the state capitol.
If gambling disorder is categorized under the Substance Use Disorder Act, the Illinois Department of Human Services would be able 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.”
IDHS found in a 2021 statewide report 3.8% of adult Illinois residents experienced problems with gambling, with an additional 7.7% of Illinoisans at risk of developing a gambling problem.
