Houchin Introduces Bipartisan POINTS Act During Problem Gambling Awareness Month

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Erin Houchin (IN-09), alongside Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), and Troy Carter (LA-02), introduced the bipartisan H.R. 7875, Providing Opportunities for Individuals in Need of Treatment and Support (POINTS) Act of 2026, legislation to expand prevention, treatment, and recovery services for individuals experiencing gambling addiction.

Under this legislation, for the first time, the federal government would dedicate funding specifically to addressing gambling addiction. The legislation redirects a portion of the existing federal excise tax on sports wagers to prevention, treatment, and recovery services-without creating any new taxes. The POINTS Act is expected to generate approximately $100 million annually to support programs that help individuals and families affected by gambling addiction.

The bill is being introduced during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, a national effort to raise awareness about the risks of problem gambling and expand access to treatment resources. Nearly 20 million Americans are estimated to show signs of problem gambling, contributing to an estimated $14 billion in annual social costs nationwide.

The POINTS Act represents the first bipartisan legislation focused on gambling addiction introduced in Congress in more than 15 years. The bill is supported by the National Council on Problem Gambling, Mental Health America of Indiana, and the Indiana Council on Problem Gambling.

"Gambling addiction can quietly devastate families. The financial damage and emotional strain often build over time and affect far more than the person placing the bet. I've seen how those consequences can impact loved ones and communities. As access to sports betting and online gambling grows, we have a responsibility to confront the addiction that can follow. The POINTS Act directs existing federal gaming revenue toward prevention, treatment, and recovery programs to help people get back on their feet." - Rep. Erin Houchin (IN-09)

"As sports betting and online gambling continue to expand across the country, we have a responsibility to ensure people struggling with addiction are not left behind. Gambling addiction can devastate individuals and families, yet too many communities still lack the resources needed to provide prevention, treatment, and recovery support. The POINTS Act helps close that gap by investing existing gambling excise tax revenue into programs that expand care, raise awareness, and connect people to the help they need." - Rep. Andrea Salinas (OR-06)

"Gambling addiction is a serious and growing challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities across our country. The POINTS Act takes an important step toward expanding prevention, treatment, and recovery services for those who need them most. By supporting states as they strengthen programs, train providers, and expand access to care, including in rural communities, we can ensure more Americans struggling with gambling addiction have a pathway to help and hope. I'm proud to join this bipartisan effort to improve access to treatment and support for those facing addiction." - Rep. Miller-Meeks (IA-01)

"As legal sports betting and online wagering expand across the country, we must also provide support to those struggling with addiction. I'm proud to support this bipartisan effort to provide dedicated federal support for states and Tribal governments to prevent, identify, and treat gambling addiction. We must treat this illness with the seriousness it deserves and support those seeking help." - Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02)

"We applaud Representatives Houchin and Salinas for their leadership in recognizing gambling addiction as a serious public health issue that requires a coordinated national response. Through the POINTS Act, directing existing federal revenue toward prevention, education, and treatment will help communities better address gambling-related harm and ensure support is available for those who need it." - Heather Maurer, Executive Director, National Council on Problem Gambling

"Gambling addiction devastates families, fuels crime, and strains our mental health and criminal justice systems. The data is alarming. Individuals with gambling disorders commit crimes at three to five times the rate of the general population, and families dealing with addiction face skyrocketing rates of domestic violence, child neglect, and bankruptcy. As accessibility to gambling has increased, so has the crisis. The POINTS Act gives states like Indiana the resources needed to prevent and treat gambling addiction through evidence-based interventions and community support. Mental Health America of Indiana has worked closely with Congresswoman Houchin for years, and we are proud to support her leadership on this critical issue." - Stephen McCaffrey, President & CEO, Mental Health America of Indiana

"Rep. Houchin has shown tremendous leadership in bringing attention to the need for stronger resources to prevent and address gambling addiction. The POINTS Act represents a meaningful step forward that will benefit communities in Indiana and strengthen efforts nationwide." - Christina Gray, Executive Director, Indiana Council on Problem Gambling

The POINTS Act prioritizes grants for communities disproportionately impacted by gambling addiction, including youth, veterans, and rural communities. The bill also encourages partnerships with community-based organizations to expand access to services and improve outcomes for individuals seeking help.

See text of the POINTS Act here.